The Russian official said the peace deal should keep Ukraine out of NATO.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko said any peace deal with Ukraine must include guarantees that NATO will exclude Ukraine from membership and that Ukraine will remain neutral. This demand has been reiterated by Russian officials during ongoing peace talks aimed at ending the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The talks have been complicated with both sides sticking to their positions. Russia insists on Ukraine's neutrality and its exclusion from NATO, while Ukraine wants a complete withdrawal of Russian troops and security guarantees from the United States and other countries. The United States has proposed a 30-day ceasefire, which Ukraine has accepted, signaling a possible shift in diplomatic efforts. Russia's demands for a peace deal include recognition of its occupation of Crimea and other regions, a halt to NATO's eastward expansion, and the lifting of sanctions.

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However, these demands have been opposed by Ukraine and its allies, arguing that they undermine Ukraine's sovereignty and security. The talks have also discussed the presence of peacekeeping forces, which Russia has rejected if they are from NATO countries. This has complicated efforts to establish a ceasefire and a lasting peace deal.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stressed that any peace deal must directly involve Ukraine and not be negotiated only between the US and Russia. He has also warned about the potential threat posed by Russia to other NATO countries if it is not stopped.

Despite these challenges, there is growing recognition of the need for a comprehensive solution that addresses the concerns of all relevant parties. The international community, including the United States and China, will play a key role in supporting or negotiating a ceasefire or agreement.

Negotiations are ongoing with the aim of reaching a lasting peace deal to maintain stability in the region.

However, given the deep differences between Russia and Ukraine, achieving lasting peace remains a significant challenge.