Ukraine Unwilling to Resume Dialogue with Russia, Says Kremlin

(MENAFN) Ukrainian officials have shown no interest in continuing negotiations with Russia, despite previous efforts made in Istanbul to establish working groups, according to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov.

Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, Peskov explained, “During the last meeting in Istanbul, the delegations put forward proposals to create working groups to discuss all modalities on key issues. Now, a pause has occurred. The pause is due to the Kiev regime’s unwillingness to continue the dialogue.”

His remarks came in response to inquiries about Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, who expressed a desire last week to engage in direct talks with Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky.

On Friday, Lukashenko stated, “Vladimir Alexandrovich [Zelensky] needs to calm down - there is a good proposal on the table,” without elaborating further, though he indicated that the offer had been previously discussed with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Direct negotiations between Moscow and Kiev resumed earlier this year in Türkiye, with three rounds of talks held, the latest in July. While no significant breakthroughs have been made, the discussions have facilitated some progress on humanitarian issues. Notable outcomes include several high-profile prisoner exchanges and the return of fallen soldiers' remains.

The Kremlin has consistently emphasized its openness to a peaceful resolution but insists that any agreement must address the core issues of the conflict, including the status of Ukrainian territories that held referendums to join Russia. Conversely, Kiev demands an unconditional ceasefire, security guarantees, and insists that its territorial claims be part of any future negotiations.

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