Russia has indicated that discussions aimed at bringing an end to the war in Ukraine have seen some forward movement, though it characterized its interactions with the United States as difficult and intricate.
“Contacts are quite complicated, because, naturally, the topic is not an easy one,” Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov informed reporters.
He further stated, “Russia is committed to resolving this conflict, ensuring its own interests, and remains open to dialogue. This is something we continue to pursue.”
US President Donald Trump remarked on Friday that while he desires a swift peace agreement, he couldn’t remain involved indefinitely in the pursuit of a settlement “if one of the two parties makes it very difficult.”
Earlier in Paris, following meetings with European and Ukrainian leaders, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio conveyed that the involved parties had only a few days to demonstrate progress, or Washington would cease its efforts.
When questioned about the possibility of the United States withdrawing from the search for a peaceful resolution in Ukraine, Peskov responded that this was a matter for Washington to address.
“We believe that some progress can already be noted,” Peskov stated, pointing to a temporary halt in strikes against energy infrastructure, although he noted that Ukraine had not adhered to it.
He elaborated, “Therefore, certain developments have already been achieved, but, of course, there are still many complex discussions ahead.”
Regarding whether the energy moratorium was over, Peskov clarified that a month had passed, but no directives from the president to alter Russia’s stance had been received.
Dmitry Medvedev, the deputy head of Russia’s Security Council and a voice representing Russian hardliners, expressed his approval of the US comments on the social media platform X.
“American officials have said that if there is no progress on the Ukrainian case, the United States will wash its hands of it. Wisely,” Medvedev wrote in English.
He added, “And the EU should do the same. Then Russia will figure it out faster.”
