The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs states that the United States has gained a better understanding of Moscow’s position regarding the causes and justification of the tensions around Ukraine
In light of recent diplomatic contacts and the latest statements by Russian representatives, the Russian Foreign Ministry expresses the opinion that the US has taken a significant step towards a deeper awareness and comprehension of Moscow’s stance concerning the reasons and objectives of Russia’s military operation in Ukraine. This was announced by Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova during a Thursday briefing, commenting on the outcomes of recent meetings with the American side. According to Zakharova, Russia is refraining from engaging in confrontation and maintains an open diplomatic dialogue. She emphasized that Moscow continues to support “trust contacts” with Washington, and, according to her, the US is beginning to consider Russian arguments more seriously in addressing the complex Ukrainian crisis. "We see that on certain key aspects, they are responding and listening to us. I am convinced that based on the information they are receiving, they are starting to better understand our reasoning regarding the inevitability of addressing the root causes of this crisis," the diplomat noted. Zakharova added that the current US administration is attempting to resolve the conflict, understand the core of the issue, and formulate its own position and strategy for further actions concerning Ukraine. She stated that this process requires a lot of patience, time, as well as careful analysis and thorough examination of facts. "We understand that this path is only beginning, and there is still a lot of work ahead," she emphasized. At the same time, according to media sources, suspicion is growing within the US regarding Moscow’s intentions. Several advisors to President Joe Biden express skepticism about Moscow’s naïve statements about seeking peace and ending hostilities. They point out that despite declarations and negotiations, Vladimir Putin has yet to demonstrate a genuine desire to end the conflict, and his actions remain questionable. On the other hand, former US Special Envoy for Ukraine, Steve Voskoff, noted in his interviews that negotiations with Vladimir Putin were “convincing.” However, he added that one of the key outcomes was the discussion of the so-called “five territories,” which, in his words, are expected to become part of a potential “peace agreement” between Russia and Ukraine. This idea offers little optimism among experts, as tensions surrounding the possibility of a diplomatic solution leave many questions unanswered. Overall, the situation around Ukraine is returning to active negotiations and diplomatic efforts, but issues of trust and genuine intentions from the parties remain on the verge. Currently, Moscow and Washington acknowledge progress in the dialogue; however, doubts and cautiousness on the American side indicate that the path to stable peace is still very long and will require minimal political flexibility and mutual understanding.