ROX• TV | Russia-Ukraine: Talks-Tensions-Theater “Illusion of peace”

Leaders of the negotiating groups from Russia and Ukraine continue communications, but there are currently no new dates set for the next round of talks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday.

Russia remains committed to resolving the conflict in Ukraine through political and diplomatic means, but it is subject to the willingness of the two sides, Peskov told a news conference in Moscow.

"The leaders of the negotiating groups are maintaining contact, however, we cannot specify an exact timeline for the upcoming round of negotiations," he added.

The spokesman said the issue of security guarantees is crucial in addressing the Ukrainian conflict, though public discussions on this matter could harm overall effectiveness.

"Certainly, this topic is one of the most significant within the framework of efforts aimed at finding a resolution. It consistently appears on the agenda of ongoing consultations. But we do not wish to engage in public discourse on this subject now. We consider it counterproductive for achieving general results," he stressed.

Commenting on statements by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko about potential strikes against administrative buildings in Kyiv using Russia's newest Oreshnik system, Peskov said President Vladimir Putin always "upholds a responsible stance," ensuring that Russian forces only target military objectives.

"President Putin consistently maintains a decisive, thoughtful, and responsible position. Our armed forces strike exclusively military and quasi-military targets. This presidential stance will undoubtedly persist and remain unchanged going forward," he said.

Asked about possible elevation of the level of negotiating teams between Russia and Ukraine, the spokesman said high-level or top-level contacts need thorough preparation to yield results.

"This work continues, and we believe it should proceed. Because any additional contacts at higher levels, as we've repeatedly stressed, require proper preparation so these interactions prove fruitful," he said.

Peskov then lauded the US efforts in resolving the conflict, saying Russia highly appreciates peacemaking efforts by US President Donald Trump towards ending it and expressing hope he will continue them as they are "very important."