Kremlin Criticizes Europe’s War Focus, Urges Shift Toward Peace
Russia remains hopeful that Europe and Ukraine will eventually lean toward peaceful negotiations, though current efforts remain centered on continuing the conflict, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated on Thursday.
During a press briefing in Moscow, Peskov remarked that the United States is actively coordinating with its European allies and Ukraine on related matters.
“We would prefer to see a move toward peace-oriented initiatives from both Europe and Ukraine,” Peskov said. “However, what we’re witnessing at this stage is a persistent focus from European nations on extending the conflict.”
Referring to an ongoing visit by a Ukrainian delegation to Paris, Peskov said the meetings would likely include discussions with U.S. officials and members of the so-called “Coalition of the Willing” regarding potential pathways to a negotiated settlement.
He added, “Discussions related to resolving the Ukraine crisis will certainly be on the agenda.”
Previously, Washington confirmed that Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy Steven Witkoff would be in Paris on April 17–18 for high-level talks with European counterparts about Ukraine’s future trajectory.
The “Coalition of the Willing” had earlier assembled in Paris on March 27, with representatives from approximately 30 countries convening to explore possible security assurances for Ukraine after the conflict concludes.
One key topic reportedly under consideration was the potential deployment of a multinational peacekeeping force on Ukrainian soil. However, the United States did not participate in that particular meeting. Reports suggest that several nations expressed readiness to contribute troops—on the condition that the U.S. lends its support.
Peskov also confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin had an extended conversation with Steven Witkoff on April 11 in St. Petersburg. According to him, the details of their dialogue were communicated to U.S. President Donald Trump.
“We had a thorough exchange with Mr. Witkoff, and we are aware that this was reported to President Trump,” said Peskov.
He clarified that a possible meeting between Putin and Trump was not discussed during their interaction.
