Peskov: Ukraine proposes truce targeting its “Achilles’ heel” — energy

Russia is not currently engaged in substantive discussions with Ukraine over an energy ceasefire, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday, as he described the country’s energy infrastructure as an “Achilles’ heel.”

Peskov said Russian forces were continuing to carry out systematic and methodical strikes against targets in Ukraine in response to attacks by Kyiv, adding that “the situation on the ground is getting worse for Ukraine.”

“Kyiv is now proposing not a long-term settlement, but a ceasefire in the area that is their Achilles’ heel — energy,” Peskov said.

He added that Abu Dhabi remained under consideration as a venue for trilateral negotiations on a settlement once “the matter reaches substantive discussion.”

“A peaceful settlement is preferable, but in the absence of such possibilities, Russia continues the special military operation,” Peskov said.

He also reiterated that Moscow’s conditions for ending the conflict had not changed.

“Russia’s conditions for stopping the conflict in Ukraine have not changed and are well known,” Peskov said.

By Tamilla Hasanova