Moscow Signals Willingness to Analyze U.S.-Backed Ukraine peace Proposals
WASHINGTON – Russia has indicated it is prepared to “seriously analyze” aspects of a newly proposed U.S.-backed peace plan for Ukraine, tho significant hurdles remain, according to statements from Kremlin officials wednesday adn Thursday. Teh advancement comes as Ukraine appears to have tentatively backed the framework, shifting focus back to Moscow’s acceptance of the plan as a basis for negotiation.
The current draft plan, reportedly narrowed to 19 key proposals, has garnered tentative support from Ukraine following talks with U.S. officials in Abu Dhabi earlier this week. however, Russia’s initial response has been cautious.
President Vladimir Putin’s aide, Yuri Ushakov, stated Wednesday that Russia had only received an unofficial version of the latest draft, but noted some aspects were viewed “positively.” Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov echoed this sentiment, welcoming U.S.efforts but emphasizing “there are no concessions on key issues on the Ukraine settlement,” suggesting a considerable gap remains before a deal can be reached.
Putin himself weighed in Thursday, praising Russian advances in Ukraine and stating that fighting would cease only upon the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from key areas. He added that if Ukrainian forces do not withdraw, Russian forces will achieve their objectives “by force.”
Kremlin Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov cautioned against premature optimism regarding a potential end to the conflict, which began with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. “Wait. It’s too early to say that,” Peskov told reporters, according to state news agency TASS.
U.S. President Donald Trump expressed a more optimistic outlook Tuesday, stating, “I think we’re getting very close to a deal. We’ll find out… I think we’re making progress.” he later posted on Truth Social that only “a few remaining points of disagreement” were left to resolve.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also indicated a willingness to move forward with the peace framework,according to Reuters,citing a speech delivered to allied countries.
While details of the plan remain largely undisclosed, the shifting positions suggest a potential, albeit fragile, opening for diplomatic progress after over two years of conflict. CNBC has reached out to the Kremlin for further comment and is awaiting a response.
