Kremlin: Disagreements Among US, Europe, and Ukraine Prevent London Meeting
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced Wednesday that talks between US, European, and Ukrainian officials scheduled in London were canceled due to persistent disagreements on key issues. Peskov noted that the parties “have not yet managed to bridge their differences,” leading to the meeting’s collapse. Although downgraded discussions continued at a lower diplomatic level, the absence of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio underscored the challenges facing diplomatic efforts.
Peskov stressed that while Russia maintains dialogue with the US regarding a potential resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, no similar contacts currently exist with Europe or Ukraine, although President Vladimir Putin remains open to meaningful discussions.
Peskov also emphasized that any draft agreements related to Ukraine must remain confidential to avoid undermining negotiations. He reiterated Russia’s strong opposition to the idea of deploying European peacekeeping forces in Ukraine, warning that such a move would effectively establish NATO military infrastructure on Ukrainian soil—one of the primary reasons, he said, behind the launch of Russia’s “special military operation.” Regarding the anticipated visit of US presidential envoy Steven Witkoff, Peskov explained that any announcement would be made only after it happens, given the fluidity of the situation.
On other issues, Peskov mentioned that no decision had yet been made about Russia’s representation at Pope Francis’ funeral and confirmed that UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is not expected to attend the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow on May 9.
