Moscow, July 20, 2025 — Russian President Vladimir Putin is open to a peaceful resolution to the war in Ukraine, but achieving the Kremlin’s core strategic objectives remains a priority, according to his spokesperson Dmitry Peskov.
Speaking on Sunday, Peskov said that although Putin has repeatedly expressed a desire to end the conflict through diplomacy, the process is “long, difficult, and requires serious effort.”
“President Putin has often spoken of his wish to resolve the Ukrainian issue peacefully, as soon as possible. But this is a complex process that cannot be rushed,” Peskov stated.
Despite the stated openness to negotiations, Peskov was unequivocal about Russia’s intentions:
“What matters most for us is the achievement of our objectives. Our goals are clear.”
The statement comes amid a notable shift in U.S. policy, with former President Donald Trump, now a central figure in the Republican foreign policy platform, announcing a tougher stance on Russia. Trump has pledged to supply Patriot missile systems to Ukraine and issued a 50-day ultimatum for a ceasefire to be signed — or new, harsher sanctions against Russia will be imposed.
The contrast between Kremlin’s rhetoric and Washington’s warnings signals a potentially escalating standoff, even as the prospect of negotiations continues to hover over the battlefield.
