Kremlin signals peace talk but issues demands after Witkoff-Putin talks

Following talks between US envoy Steve Witkoff and Vladimir Putin, the Kremlin has again voiced a desire for peace while issuing demands and accusing Ukraine and Europe of prolonging the conflict. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov made the statements. Peskov claimed Moscow has heard no statements indicating a genuine desire for peace, adding that European countries are provoking further military action. He threatened that Russia will continue acting in its own interests and on its own terms, while praising the White House's mediation efforts. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov insisted any agreement must account for "realities on the ground" and that Moscow will not abandon its basic demands. He warned that Russia would consider a military option if diplomatic methods fail.