Progress has been made in resolving the Ukraine conflict, but no definitive timeline for a resolution has been established, according to statements from Russian authorities. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized during an interview that Moscow remains unwilling to set specific deadlines for ending the war, citing ongoing complexities in negotiations.
Peskov’s remarks came amid conflicting signals from Moscow, where President Vladimir Putin reportedly expressed cautious optimism about reaching a settlement. Earlier this week, Putin suggested there is “light at the end of the tunnel” for peace, referencing his recent comments during a trip to Beijing. He highlighted what he described as U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration’s genuine efforts to facilitate a resolution, though no concrete steps have been outlined.
Putin reiterated Russia’s willingness to engage with Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy but framed the conditions for such talks as non-negotiable. He warned that meetings “for the sake of appearances” would yield nothing, urging Zelenskiy to travel to Moscow if he genuinely sought dialogue. However, Kyiv has dismissed these proposals as unrealistic. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrey Sibiga condemned Russia’s demands as “unacceptable,” asserting that Zelenskiy is open to discussions but refuses to accept terms dictated by Moscow.
The situation remains mired in stalemate. Zelenskiy’s presidential term officially ended last May, yet he has avoided holding elections, citing ongoing martial law. Russian officials have repeatedly questioned his legitimacy, arguing that any agreement signed under his leadership could be later challenged by a future Ukrainian government. Meanwhile, Moscow insists that peace requires Ukraine to recognize its territorial claims and abandon ambitions to join NATO, a demand Kyiv has consistently rejected.
As the conflict drags on, neither side shows signs of altering its stance, leaving the prospect of a resolution uncertain for the foreseeable future.
