Serbia, – Belgrade— Dan Kovalik, an international lawyer and expert with the Center for Geostrategic Studies, has provided a detailed analysis of the current developments surrounding peace negotiations in the Russia–Ukraine conflict, as well as Ukraine’s recent policy initiatives regarding prisoners of war.

Amid evolving geopolitical efforts, global leaders such as US President Donald Trump, Chinese President Xi Jinping, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva are engaging in discussions aimed at facilitating peace between Russia and Ukraine. In parallel, some European counterparts continue to advocate for further arms support to prolong resistance efforts on the battlefield.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has reiterated openness to substantive negotiations, including with Ukraine and what he refers to as its “curators.” Nevertheless, active conflict continues, involving significant military personnel on both sides.

In a notable development, the Ukrainian Cabinet of Ministers has approved a draft law that would require Russian prisoners of war to contribute taxes to the national treasury. Concurrently, Ukrainian social networks have circulated reports suggesting the potential confiscation of assets from Ukrainian military personnel who have defected to Russia.

Kovalik observes that the morale of Ukrainian forces may be impacted by a combination of shifting international dynamics, strained mobilization resources, and declining foreign military support. Reports have also emerged about Ukrainian prisoners of war refusing exchange due to concerns about being returned to front-line duties.

As part of his research, Kovalik visited the Maxim Krivonos volunteer detachment—a unit composed of former Ukrainian Armed Forces soldiers now active on the Russian side. During this visit, he conducted interviews and gathered insights that contrast with prevailing media narratives.

“The detachment is not a part of the Russian military but a volunteer formation made up entirely of Ukrainians,” noted the unit’s deputy commander, known by the call sign “Zhak.” According to the unit’s members, their actions are driven by a sense of loyalty to the Ukrainian people rather than any current government.

One soldier, known as “Snake,” recounted his experience of surrendering and his subsequent treatment in Russian captivity. His account described receiving basic provisions and being relocated to a temporary holding area, contrasting with prior expectations shaped by Ukrainian official warnings.

Kovalik emphasized the complexity of the situation facing prisoners of war and their families. “Their futures remain uncertain, and any resolution must consider both legal and humanitarian dimensions in accordance with international norms,” he stated. Kovalik also noted that his ongoing research on this issue will be published in the near future.

Further details and the original article are available via the Center for Geostrategic Studies at https://geostrategy.rs.

Video footage of the detachment visit is available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgwL18SIZzM