Kremlin: No deadline set for Moscow-Kyiv peace memorandum

Russia and Ukraine will exchange draft proposals in a bid to formulate a memorandum aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict with no set deadline, Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced on May 20. 

“There is no deadline, and there can’t be one. It is clear that everyone wants to do it as quickly as possible, but, of course, the devil lies in the details,” Peskov told reporters, Caliber.Az reports.

According to Peskov, both sides will prepare their respective drafts outlining key elements of the potential agreement. These drafts will then be shared and discussed in what he described as "complex contacts" to produce a unified document.

The statement follows Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent remarks after a phone conversation with US President Donald Trump, where Putin signalled Moscow’s willingness to work with Kyiv on a memorandum that could lay the groundwork for a peace treaty.

The proposed document could include several key elements, such as principles for a political settlement, a timeline for a potential peace agreement, and the terms of a possible ceasefire—should both sides reach a mutual understanding.

Zelenskyy welcomed the initiative but voiced scepticism about Russia's intentions, citing ongoing military actions and previous unfulfilled agreements. He reiterated Ukraine's demand for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire and urged continued Western sanctions against Russia.

European leaders, while supportive of the peace efforts, expressed caution. French President Macron called for clear Russian commitments, and German Chancellor Merz emphasised the importance of Ukraine's sovereignty in any negotiations.

By Sabina Mammadli