Moscow has sharply contradicted former US President Donald Trump's optimistic portrayal of progress towards ending the war in Ukraine, casting significant doubt on the suggestion that a peace agreement is imminent.
Kremlin Contradicts Trump's Assertions
In a move that dampens hopes for a swift resolution, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated it was "premature" to suggest a peace deal was close. This statement directly challenges Trump's previous claims that Russian President Vladimir Putin is "making concessions" in the negotiations.
The rebuttal from Moscow comes after Trump insisted that Russia was cooperating and had even offered a "promise to stop fighting" once Ukraine agreed in principle to a peace proposal. However, the Kremlin's position suggests a far more complex and stalled diplomatic process.
Abu Dhabi Talks and the Path Forward
Adding further detail to the diplomatic impasse, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov clarified that recent talks between Russian and US officials in Abu Dhabi did not involve discussions on specific peace terms. Ushakov emphasised that the content of these talks requires "serious analysis" before any conclusions can be drawn.
Despite the public disagreement, diplomatic channels remain open. Moscow has confirmed it is now expecting a visit from US envoy Steve Witkoff next week to discuss a potential end to the conflict. This planned meeting follows Trump's decision to waive his previously stated deadline for Ukraine to reach a deal.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed his own discussions with Trump and asserted that Ukraine will not be an obstacle to peace, signalling Kyiv's continued engagement in the process even as the two major powers present conflicting narratives.
