Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov downplays chances of Moscow-Washington rapprochement, reaffirming Russia’s commitment to the Ukraine conflict.
Peskov’s Response to Trump
Peskov stated that there is no alternative to continuing the war against Ukraine, expressing skepticism about improved relations between Moscow and Washington.
Russian Objectives in Ukraine
For over six months, Vladimir Putin sought contact with Donald Trump, promising to halt military actions in Ukraine. However, Russian oppositionists and international commentators had predicted that Putin would not make concessions and would remain committed to continuing the war.
Peskov characterized further military actions as crucial for Russia’s present and future, reiterating claims disseminated by pro-Kremlin media about Russian successes on the front lines and the country’s robust economy.
Divergent Views on Russian Economy and Military
Independent military experts point to significant losses suffered by the Russian army relative to its territorial gains, while economists highlight Russia’s increasingly fragile economy and stagnation in modern technologies.
Trump’s Shift in Narrative
Donald Trump has altered his stance, describing Russia’s economic condition as “bad” and suggesting that Ukraine, backed by European states, could reclaim territories currently occupied by Russian forces.
Trump remarked that Russia has been engaged in an “aimless” fight for three and a half years, a conflict that, according to him, should have been swiftly concluded given its military might.
