Russia Blames Kyiv and Europe for Stalled Ukrainian Peace Process
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on Friday that the pause in resolving the Ukrainian conflict results from Kyiv's reluctance to engage in a political and diplomatic solution. He accused the European Union of encouraging Ukraine to continue the fighting.
Causes of the Stalemate
At a press briefing in Moscow, Peskov said:
"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."
Trust Deficit Between Russia and Ukraine
Addressing remarks by US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff about the trust issue between Russia and Ukraine, Peskov confirmed the lack of mutual trust:
"Of course, we cannot talk about any kind of mutual trust now. This is not a deficit of trust, but its absence."
Comments on US President's Statements
Peskov refrained from commenting on US President Donald Trump's claim that he had ended eight armed conflicts this year and hoped to include the Ukrainian conflict among his achievements, despite Washington stating there has been "great progress."
Prospects for Putin-Trump Meeting
Regarding a possible meeting between Presidents Putin and Trump, Peskov noted that such a meeting would be desired by both parties at the appropriate time but must be preceded by thorough preparation.
Author's summary: The Kremlin blames Kyiv’s resistance and European provocation for the frozen Ukrainian peace talks, highlighting a complete lack of trust and cautious diplomacy before any high-level meetings.