Russia Blames Kyiv and Europe for Ukrainian Peace Process Stalling
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that the halt in resolving the Ukrainian conflict stems from Kyiv's reluctance to pursue political and diplomatic solutions. Speaking during a press briefing in Moscow, he accused the European Union of encouraging Ukraine to continue fighting.
"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."
Regarding US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff's comments about distrust between Russia and Ukraine, Peskov agreed, emphasizing the complete absence of trust.
"Of course, we cannot talk about any kind of mutual trust now. This is not a deficit of trust, but its absence."
Reaction to US President's Statements
Peskov refrained from commenting on US President Donald Trump's remarks about ending eight armed conflicts this year and his desire to include the Ukrainian conflict among his achievements. Trump claimed Washington had made "great progress" on this issue.
Potential Putin-Trump Meeting
On the possibility of a meeting between Putin and Trump, Peskov noted such a meeting would be desirable for both parties at some point, but stressed it must be preceded by thorough preparations.
"The meeting will be in demand by both sides at a certain stage, but must be preceded by scrupulous work."
Author's summary: The Kremlin blames Kyiv's unwillingness and European influence for the stalled Ukrainian peace efforts, highlighting a total lack of trust between Russia and Ukraine and cautious prospects for high-level talks.