Moscow signals readiness for new Ukraine talks, cites deep divide in drafts

The Kremlin has confirmed its continued interest in pursuing a third round of negotiations with Ukraine, while acknowledging that fundamental disagreements persist between the two sides’ draft proposals.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov made the remarks during a briefing with journalists, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

“There is our draft memorandum, there is a draft memorandum that has been handed over by the Ukrainian side. There is to be an exchange of views and talks on these two drafts, which are diametrically opposed so far," Peskov said.

He emphasized that “a great deal of diplomatic work lies ahead,” underscoring the complexity of bridging the current political and strategic divide.

The Kremlin’s position signals an openness to continued dialogue but also highlights the scale of the obstacles facing any potential breakthrough. While Peskov did not elaborate on the specific points of contention, his comments suggest that Moscow views the Ukrainian proposals as fundamentally incompatible with its own.

Peskov further clarified that there have been no changes to Russia’s negotiating delegation, indicating consistency in Moscow’s approach to future talks. “There are no changes on the Russian side in the negotiation group,” he noted.

He also reiterated Russia’s willingness to proceed with a third round of talks as soon as mutual arrangements on timing can be agreed upon. “You know that we are in favor of holding a third round. As soon as there is clarity regarding the dates, we will inform you immediately,” Peskov added.

Ukraine and Russia held two rounds of talks in Istanbul, on May 16 and June 2, that led to the exchange of thousands of prisoners of war and the remains of dead soldiers. But the two sides have made no breakthrough towards a ceasefire or a settlement to end almost three and a half years of war.

By Vafa Guliyeva