The Kremlin has indicated that the future pace of negotiations to end the ongoing war in Ukraine hinges on three key factors: the stance adopted by Kyiv, the diplomatic influence exerted by Washington, and developments on the battlefield.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, speaking on Belarus 1 TV on Sunday, emphasized that the “Kyiv regime's” position plays a pivotal role in determining the course of peace efforts. He also highlighted the importance of how effectively the United States continues its mediation role in the conflict, along with real-time military dynamics across Ukraine.
Despite U.S. President Donald Trump's campaign pledge to swiftly end the war following his January 2025 inauguration, no concrete resolution is in sight as the conflict drags into its third year. Trump has encouraged both Ukraine and Russia to engage in ceasefire negotiations and expressed optimism on Friday, stating he believes “something will happen” regarding a potential resolution.
Peskov, however, refrained from detailing Moscow’s expectations from either Kyiv or Washington. Russia’s demands which include Ukraine relinquishing more territory and halting its reliance on Western military aid remain non-negotiable for Kyiv.
Though no future meeting dates have been confirmed, Peskov expressed hope that timelines for renewed talks would be established “in the near future.”
Direct negotiations resumed in Istanbul in mid-May and early June after a three-year break, resulting in agreements on prisoner swaps and the repatriation of fallen soldiers. Yet, the two sides remain far apart on the terms for peace. Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday that the proposals exchanged during the June 2 meeting were “completely contradictory.”
Meanwhile, Russia continues to make slow but steady territorial gains in southeastern Ukraine, particularly in Donetsk and Dnipropetrovsk regions, while intensifying its air strikes across the country.
Turkey, which hosted the most recent dialogue sessions, has offered to facilitate further negotiations.