Kremlin Reaffirms Territorial Stance and Denounces Sanctions Amid Diplomatic Talks
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reiterated Russia’s firm stance on territorial integrity and ongoing military operations while confirming high-level diplomatic engagements. His statements on Thursday underscored Moscow’s defiance of Western sanctions and its commitment to securing contested regions.
Peskov confirmed that US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz held a phone conversation with Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov, marking a rare direct engagement between Washington and Moscow. He emphasized that Crimea, Sevastopol, Kherson, Zaporozhye, and the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics are constitutionally recognized as part of Russia. Addressing military operations, he stated that the Kursk region “will be liberated,” stressing that the timeframe will depend on ensuring the safety of Russian troops and civilians.
On the diplomatic front, Peskov revealed that President Vladimir Putin might hold an international phone conversation later in the evening, with further details to follow. He reiterated Russia’s stance that Western-imposed sanctions are “illegal” and must be lifted. Additionally, Putin is expected to engage in further discussions, including negotiations with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and other diplomatic contacts.
