Positive Momentum in Ukraine Talks, But No Quick Resolution: Kremlin

Moscow: Responding to recent efforts by former U.S. President Donald Trump to help resolve the Ukraine conflict, the Kremlin has acknowledged that communication with Washington is at a “very good” level—but warned that quick results are unlikely.

The statement comes following a four-hour meeting in St. Petersburg between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Steve Witkoff, Trump’s special envoy.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told Russian state television, “Contacts are taking place at multiple levels — through the foreign ministry, intelligence agencies, and investment representatives. But considering the damage done to relations during the Biden administration, it would be unrealistic to expect swift outcomes.”

He added that Trump, who has repeatedly expressed a desire to be remembered as a “peacemaker,” is committed to ending the “bloodshed” that has lasted over three years in Ukraine. Trump’s administration reportedly views the conflict as a “proxy war” between the U.S. and Russia — an interpretation that aligns with Moscow’s perspective.

Peskov further stated that a direct meeting between President Trump and President Putin remains a possibility, but emphasized the need for “patience and restraint”.
“Restoring relations requires time and a serious effort,” he said.

Meanwhile, Donald Trump commented on the peace efforts, saying, “To some extent, the talks are moving in the right direction. But a point comes when you either move forward or remain silent.”

On the other hand, European countries and Ukraine continue to characterize the war — which began in 2022 — as a result of Putin’s imperial ambitions. Russia, however, maintains it is responding to Western provocations.

Currently, Russia controls roughly one-fifth of Ukrainian territory, and the path to lasting peace remains uncertain.