Kremlin: Russia engaged in direct negotiations with Ukraine

Russia is engaged in direct negotiations with representatives of the Ukrainian government, though these talks are taking place with the mediation efforts of the United States, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said.

He then added that the Kremlin is still waiting for proposals from Ukraine regarding a potential third round of negotiations, Caliber.Az reports via TASS.

Responding to a question about whether Kyiv’s reluctance to coordinate a third round of negotiations might be linked to influence or incitement from European actors, Peskov said the Kremlin does not have reliable information on that matter and therefore could not confirm any such connection

He stated that the initiation of a new round of talks depends on the completion of the current exchange process, which is being carried out in accordance with agreements reached during the second round of negotiations in Istanbul, 

Peskov emphasised that additional coordination is ongoing to fully implement those agreements. He noted that once the exchange is completed, a decision regarding the next phase of talks will need to be made, and Russia is expecting Ukraine to put forward concrete proposals.

By Sabina Mammadli