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Russia said a final resolution to the Ukraine crisis requires Kyiv to take a political decision on Donbas that aligns with ongoing Russia–U.S. talks, according to a senior Foreign Ministry official.
Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin told the Russian daily Izvestiya that Moscow opposes a temporary ceasefire and favors a long-term settlement to the conflict.
“For a final solution and a lasting ceasefire, the Kyiv authorities must urgently take a bold and responsible political decision on Donbas,” Galuzin said, adding that such a move should be compatible with efforts conducted through the Russian-American channel.
Galuzin accused Ukraine and European countries of undermining peace efforts, saying they currently represent “the biggest obstacle” to a political solution.
Galuzin said Ukraine had abandoned the negotiation process held in Istanbul, but noted that agreements reached there led to significant prisoner exchanges.
He said around 2,300 Russian soldiers and 170 civilians returned home under the Istanbul arrangements, while Ukraine received about 2,400 soldiers and 170 civilians.
He added that 12 Russian civilians taken from Russia’s Kursk region remain in Ukrainian custody.
Galuzin also said Russia handed over the remains of about 12,000 Ukrainian soldiers and received the bodies of around 200 Russian troops, expressing hope that the process would continue.
Commenting on Armenia’s adoption of a new Strategic Partnership Agenda with the European Union, Galuzin said Armenia remains Russia’s ally and strategic partner.
He said Armenia has the right to develop relations with the EU or other actors but warned that deeper integration with the EU would inevitably conflict with obligations under the Eurasian Economic Union.
Galuzin also said Russia supports Armenia’s continued participation in the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO).
Turning to ties with Azerbaijan, Galuzin said bilateral relations had faced challenges this year but economic cooperation had continued to advance, with trade volumes increasing.
He highlighted the resumption of political dialogue in the second half of the year and described an October meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in Dushanbe as significant.
Galuzin also said Russia is seeking the release of 11 Russian citizens currently detained in Azerbaijan.
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