Kremlin spokesman: No clear plans yet for new Ukraine talks

There is currently no clear understanding regarding a new round of negotiations with Ukraine, but contacts must continue, Russian presidential spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has stated.

Speaking to Russian media, Peskov confirmed that discussions will undoubtedly continue, Caliber.Az reports.

Responding to a question about whether Russia would provide a written reply to Ukraine’s memorandum or if direct talks between Moscow and Kyiv would resume, he said: “Depending on how the situation develops, the conversation should, in principle, move towards continuation and the next round of negotiations.

However, there is no precise understanding on this matter at present.”

In another development, Peskov criticised NATO, accusing the alliance of shedding all pretences to reveal its true nature as an instrument of aggression and confrontation.

His remarks came in response to NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte’s call for member states to boost their air defence capabilities by 400%.

“The actions of NATO do not support stability or security,” Peskov said. “This organisation is designed for confrontation. NATO has now shown its true face. European taxpayers will spend their money to counter a threat that, according to them, supposedly comes from our country.

But this threat is illusory. If members of the North Atlantic Alliance wish to act this way towards their taxpayers, that is their choice.”

Mark Rutte is expected to outline the necessity for a “quantum leap” in NATO’s collective defence capabilities during a speech at the Royal Institute of International Affairs, emphasising the need to enhance air and missile defence systems by 400%.

Meanwhile, Russia has approved a new strategy for the development of its Navy, which President Vladimir Putin has signed off.

Speaking at a briefing, Peskov explained that the strategy aims to ensure the fleet evolves in line with modern realities.

“The strategy’s purpose is to develop the naval forces so that the process corresponds to contemporary conditions. Technology is advancing, and the nature of combat operations is changing. The Navy must keep pace with the times,” he said.

“Given the lengthy timeframe involved in building new ships, it is a long-term plan.”

By Aghakazim Guliyev