Kremlin: Freezing conflict in Ukraine currently impossible

The Kremlin has declared that freezing the conflict in Ukraine is not feasible at present, citing Kyiv's unwavering position. Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin's spokesperson, stated that the conditions for halting hostilities were established two years ago and could be realized if the Ukrainian government made decisive choices.

This statement follows Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's recent conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin. During their meeting in Omsk, Tokayev suggested that it might be time to freeze the conflict and revisit the "Istanbul 2.0" formula, referencing prior negotiations that yielded significant results.

However, Peskov emphasized Russia's primary condition: "For us, there is one most important condition - we must achieve our goals." Previously, in 2024, Putin outlined Russia's core demands for ending the war. These include the complete withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from the Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson regions, as well as Ukraine's formal renunciation of any aspirations to join NATO.

The Russian stance indicates a firm position on its objectives, suggesting that any potential de-escalation hinges on Ukraine meeting these demands. The ongoing conflict and the differing perspectives on its resolution continue to be a major point of international concern.

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For us, there is one most important condition - we must achieve our goals.