Russia has reiterated its openness to negotiations on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and expressed support for peace initiatives, especially those proposed by nations in the Global South and its BRICS partners.
This statement comes amidst renewed international efforts to seek an end to the prolonged war.
The Kremlin's remarks followed a call by US President-elect Donald Trump for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine. Trump, who met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on December 7, urged a halt to hostilities, citing the devastating toll on human lives and families.
The meeting occurred during the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral, which had been under restoration since the 2019 fire.
Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs shared a statement from Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov on social media, emphasising that President Vladimir Putin has consistently been open to dialogue.
The statement welcomed peace initiatives from BRICS countries such as China, Brazil, and South Africa, as well as from other nations like the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. These countries, according to the Kremlin, have played an active role in advancing humanitarian efforts in the conflict.
However, Peskov criticised Ukraine's position, accusing President Zelenskyy of actively blocking peace efforts. He referred to a decree issued by Zelenskyy that prohibits dialogue with Russian leadership, stating that the Ukrainian government’s stance has remained unchanged.
Peskov added that peace could be achieved if Zelenskyy were to revoke this decree and resume talks based on prior arrangements made in Istanbul. These talks, he noted, should also consider the current realities on the ground.
The Kremlin further highlighted that the conditions for ending hostilities were outlined by President Putin in June this year during a speech at Russia’s Foreign Ministry.
Peskov stressed that Ukraine’s consistent rejection of negotiations has been a major impediment to peace. The Kremlin insists that the onus lies with Kyiv to take the first step towards dialogue and a peaceful resolution.
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine dates back to 2014, when Russia annexed Crimea, leading to widespread international condemnation. The situation escalated dramatically in February 2022 when Russia launched a full-scale military invasion of Ukraine.
The war has resulted in significant loss of life, displacement of millions, and a humanitarian crisis of immense proportions.
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