Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has responded to pressure from the European Union for a ceasefire agreement by Monday evening, calling such an approach toward Russia “misguided,” Rks News reports.
“The language of ultimatums is unacceptable for Russia and inappropriate. You cannot speak to Russia in this manner,” Peskov told reporters, as reported by AFP. He emphasized that Moscow remains focused on seeking a peaceful and long-term resolution, but did not say whether President Putin would accept Ukrainian President Zelenskyy’s invitation to meet in Istanbul.
Diplomatic pressure on Russia has intensified following a statement from the German government, which demanded Moscow agree to a 30-day unconditional ceasefire by the end of the day, warning of new sanctions otherwise.
“If Moscow rejects the demand, preparations for new sanctions will begin,” said German government spokesperson Stefan Kornelius, warning that “the clock is ticking.”
On Sunday, Russian President Vladimir Putin had already rejected another ultimatum from European leaders regarding a ceasefire with Ukraine. Instead, he proposed direct negotiations with Kyiv during the week an offer the EU rejected, arguing “there can be no peace under fire.”
