Recently, Kremlin representatives—including Peskov, Ryabkov, Lavrov, and Ushakov—expressed dissatisfaction with US and European efforts to settle the war in Ukraine. Deputy Foreign Minister Ryabkov emphasized that Moscow prefers an agreement sooner rather than continued fighting, but refuses compromise on the five occupied regions.
Experts point out that Russian rhetoric is often contradictory: publicly, the Kremlin portrays openness to talks but rejects concessions and insists on keeping the annexed territories. Notably, Ryabkov recently referred to the proposed peace plan as tantamount to Ukraine’s capitulation.
Ukrainian authorities, backed by the West, are increasing diplomatic pressure on Russia, particularly through sanctions targeting its energy sector, which are affecting the Russian economy. Meanwhile, Ukraine maintains its stance that territorial issues are not subject to negotiation, with support from European and American partners.
The situation is further complicated by Russia’s internal politics and external actors’ influence on the peace process. Experts highlight the lack of substantive steps from Moscow towards ending the war. Notably, Belarusian leader Lukashenko publicly acknowledged for the first time both internal and external problems facing Russia as factors in its stance on ending the conflict.
Commentators stress that the current phase of negotiations is marked by informational chaos, aimed at confusing both Europeans and Ukrainian public opinion. The direction of talks will depend on Ukraine’s resolve, Western unity, and the Kremlin’s willingness to compromise.
