Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova has accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of attempting to sabotage potential peace negotiations through deliberate attacks on civilians.
The Operative Information Center-OMM reports that Zakharova made these remarks during an interview with Sputnik radio. According to the spokesperson, the Zelensky administration is utilizing terror tactics and strikes against the civilian population to undermine any emerging peace initiatives.
"How does the Zelensky regime react to contacts? This does not stem from military necessity or the logic of the situation on the battlefield. The strikes are carried out specifically against the civilian population and social facilities. These are not just strikes; they are terror attacks," the diplomat stated. Zakharova further emphasized that the primary objective of such actions is to derail any discussions or progress toward a peaceful resolution. She noted that while specific details of a final peace plan are not currently under discussion, every step taken in that direction is met with similar aggressive reactions from Kyiv.
The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has seen numerous international attempts at mediation since its escalation. While various global actors have proposed peace frameworks, both sides remain deeply divided over territorial sovereignty and security guarantees. This latest statement from the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) reflects the continued diplomatic deadlock and the high level of rhetoric regarding the conditions necessary for a ceasefire or formal negotiations.