MOSCOW – Russian leadership expressed approval Wednesday for the recently announced two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran, while suggesting this development could pave the way for renewed diplomatic efforts regarding Ukraine.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov addressed reporters, stating: “We received the news of a truce with satisfaction. We welcome the decision not to proceed further down the path of armed escalation.”
When questioned about whether the Iran ceasefire might open doors for fresh Ukraine negotiations, Peskov responded: “We hope that, in the foreseeable future, (the U.S.) will have more time and greater opportunity to meet in a trilateral format,” referencing discussions between Russia, Ukraine and the United States.
Moscow had indicated earlier that diplomatic efforts regarding Ukraine were put on hold following the emergence of conflict involving Iran.
The peace negotiations initially launched last year in Istanbul, with three-party discussions including American participation taking place early this year in Abu Dhabi and Geneva.
However, diplomatic advancement has remained limited, primarily due to territorial disagreements. Moscow insists that Ukraine relinquish control of the remaining portions of the Donbas region, while Kyiv maintains its refusal to cede territory that Russian military forces have been unable to secure during more than four years of warfare.
