Moscow | July 20, 2025 —Russian President Vladimir Putin remains open to pursuing a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, but the Kremlin has reaffirmed that Moscow’s strategic objectives remain unchanged.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, speaking to state television in an interview broadcast on Sunday, stated that Russia is prepared to engage in peace negotiations. However, he underscored that any talks must align with Russia’s long-term goals in the region.
“President Putin has repeatedly expressed his intent to reach a peaceful settlement of the Ukraine conflict at the earliest opportunity. But it is a long and complex process that demands serious effort,” Peskov said during the interview with reporter Pavel Zarubin.
Peskov reiterated that while Russia welcomes diplomatic dialogue, “the main thing for us is to achieve our goals. Our goals are clear.”
The remarks come at a time of continued hostilities in eastern Ukraine and growing international pressure for de-escalation. Russia’s stated objectives in Ukraine — which include security guarantees, recognition of territorial claims, and demilitarisation of Kyiv’s forces — have remained a sticking point in previous rounds of negotiations.
Referring to recent comments by former U.S. President Donald Trump, Peskov acknowledged the familiar “harsh rhetoric” but pointed to Trump’s openness toward exploring a peace agreement as a potentially constructive signal. “The world is accustomed to President Trump’s strong statements, but he has also spoken of continuing to seek a peace deal,” Peskov said.
Despite international diplomatic overtures and sanctions, Moscow has held its position firmly, asserting that any resolution must reflect its core security and geopolitical interests.
Analysts suggest that while the Kremlin’s tone may reflect a diplomatic opening, the insistence on fulfilling long-standing objectives suggests little shift in Russia’s broader strategy.
The conflict, now in its third year, has led to significant humanitarian consequences and geopolitical instability across Europe, with negotiations repeatedly faltering amid mutual distrust and entrenched positions on both sides.
