Kremlin says it will welcome mediators for Ukraine peace talks

The Kremlin confirmed on Thursday its readiness to receive international mediators focused on finding a political resolution to the war in Ukraine. This includes potential visits from U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, whose travel dates remain unconfirmed, as well as Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Vatican's top diplomat, who is scheduled to visit Moscow next week.

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We highly value the efforts of all countries that express a sincere desire to support the conflict resolution process.

"We highly value the efforts of all countries that express a sincere desire to support the conflict resolution process," stated Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov during a press briefing. He added that while the date for the U.S. envoys' visit is unknown, they are "always welcome in Moscow" and are considered welcome interlocutors for their Russian counterparts and President Vladimir Putin. Peskov suggested the American mediators are currently engaged in "other directions of U.S. foreign policy."

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But they are always welcome in Moscow, always welcome interlocutors for their Russian counterparts, with whom they maintain permanent contact, and for President (Russian, Vladímir) Putin.

Regarding the Vatican's diplomatic chief, Peskov confirmed Gallagher's upcoming visit to Moscow from August 25-28. While a meeting with the president is not currently scheduled, contacts are expected. Addressing Western fatigue with the conflict, Peskov acknowledged its existence, noting that "without a doubt, it exists." He cautioned against exaggerating this fatigue, pointing out that a group of European countries continues to increase their direct, technological, and technical involvement in the war, citing the UK's recent admission of supplying long-range drones used against Russian infrastructure.

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Without a doubt, it exists.

Peskov asserted that these countries are actively working to prevent this weariness from growing, encouraging European nations to prolong the war. He concluded that currently, due to the stance of the Kyiv regime, there are no grounds for optimism regarding a peaceful settlement. He referenced President Putin's statements on the dynamics at the front, confirming that the "special military operation continues."

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The special military operation continues.