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Russia wants to end the conflict in Ukraine as soon as possible but insists it can only happen once Moscow’s initial objectives are achieved, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Monday.
Speaking at a press briefing in Moscow, Peskov emphasized that Russia remains open to a political and diplomatic settlement, describing this path as “preferable.”
However, he said that the conditions for peace depend on fulfilling the goals announced at the start of Russia’s “special military operation” in February 2022; namely, the “demilitarization” and “denazification” of Ukraine.
Peskov said negotiations have stalled “through no fault of Russia,” claiming that European countries have encouraged Kyiv to believe in a possible military victory.
“Our counterparts are not allowing us to continue the negotiations,” he said, adding that Western nations are “egging on” Ukraine instead of promoting peace talks.
He asserted that the battlefield situation is “dynamic” and that Ukraine’s position continues to deteriorate, saying the number of Ukrainians favoring peace “on Russia’s terms” is expected to increase.
Peskov praised Kazakhstan’s readiness to facilitate possible peace negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv, describing Astana as a “special, privileged partner.”
He noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to brief Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on the situation in Ukraine during Tokayev’s state visit to Russia, which begins Tuesday.
Peskov added that Russia “highly values” Kazakhstan’s position and willingness to contribute to resolving the crisis.
The Kremlin spokesman confirmed that preparations are underway for Putin’s visit to India by the end of 2025, describing it as a “meaningful” trip expected to enhance bilateral cooperation.
Peskov also dismissed claims that Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had fallen out of favor following talks with his U.S. counterpart Marco Rubio, calling the reports “false” and saying Lavrov “continues to work actively.”
He further noted that Moscow has no detailed information about Hungary’s reported proposals to end the war in Ukraine and that Putin has not discussed Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s recent visit to the United States.
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