Russia Blames Kyiv and Europe for Stalled Peace Process
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on Friday that the Ukrainian conflict remains unresolved due to Kyiv's refusal to pursue political and diplomatic solutions. Speaking at a Moscow press briefing, he accused European countries of encouraging Ukraine to continue fighting.
"The main thing that is currently slowing down the settlement process is the pause that has arisen due to the unwillingness of the Ukrainian side to follow the path of a political and diplomatic settlement, and due to the provocation of the Kyiv regime by the Europeans to continue further hostilities."
Regarding US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff's comments about a lack of trust between Russia and Ukraine, Peskov agreed that trust is currently absent between the two sides.
"Of course, we cannot talk about any kind of mutual trust now. This is not a deficit of trust, but its absence."
Peskov declined to comment on US President Donald Trump's statement that he has ended eight armed conflicts this year and wishes to add Ukraine's settlement to his achievements, despite Washington's claims of significant progress.
On a potential meeting between Presidents Putin and Trump, Peskov said such a meeting would be desired by both parties at an appropriate time, but only after thorough preparation.
Summary
The Kremlin attributes stalled peace talks to Ukraine’s reluctance and European provocation, highlighting a complete lack of trust between Russia and Ukraine while considering future talks with the US contingent on detailed groundwork.