The Kremlin has denounced European leaders for making what it called contradictory and aggressive statements after they signed on to a US-backed proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine. The plan, supported by Washington and some EU leaders, threatens Russia with “massive” sanctions if it does not comply.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Saturday that European countries seem more interested in raising tensions than mending relations. “We hear lots of contradictory statements from Europe. They are usually aggressive in tone rather than in an attempt to revive our relations. Nothing more,” he stated.
Peskov also stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin is still willing to engage in dialogue. “He is receptive to interaction, to dialogue with any leaders as far as the leaders themselves are willing,” he said.
The ceasefire offer, which takes effect Monday, was supported in Kyiv by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and visiting British, French, German, and Polish leaders. “So all of us here together with the US are calling Putin out. If he is serious about peace, then he has a chance to show it,” said British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Although he gave theoretical backing for a ceasefire, Peskov, on Friday, said that any ceasefire would need to take into account “a large number of nuances.” Telling ABC News, he went on to add that a ceasefire would only be possible if the West stops supplying military aid to Ukraine. “Otherwise, it will be an advantage for Ukraine,” he warned.
Russian authorities are convinced their military has the advantage and are concerned that Ukraine might use a ceasefire to rebuild, mobilize more forces, and obtain additional Western arms.
Moscow has also blamed Kyiv for thwarting peace initiatives, citing a 2022 decree that excludes any talks with President Putin.
The global community now looks up to Moscow for a response before Monday’s proposed ceasefire.
