Kremlin Signals Slow Progress in US-Russia Ties, Vows to Press On in Ukraine
Moscow – Russian Presidential Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov has acknowledged that efforts to improve relations between Moscow and Washington, initiated by President Donald Trump, have so far produced little concrete progress.
In an interview with RBC radio, Peskov stated that while attempts are being made to remove irritants in Russian-American relations, the results remain “practically zero.” He suggested that the rapprochement has stalled, particularly following shifts in the American position regarding support for Ukraine.
Peskov rejected recent characterizations of Russia as weak, pushing back against descriptions that likened Moscow to a “paper tiger.” “Russia is not a tiger,” he said. “Most often, our country is compared to a bear. There are no paper bears—Russia is a real bear.” According to TASS, he added that President Vladimir Putin nevertheless appreciates any genuine efforts aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict.
The Kremlin spokesman stressed that Russia’s economy continues to demonstrate resilience despite facing certain difficulties and tensions in specific sectors, largely due to Western sanctions. However, he made it clear that abandoning the “special military operation” launched in February 2022 is not an option.
“We continue to act in the interests of the country, for the sake of the present and future of our citizens. We have no other option,” Peskov emphasized.
He also claimed that Russian troops are advancing in all directions on the Ukrainian front, with noticeable positive changes in the dynamics of the conflict.
Peskov’s comments reflect Moscow’s firm stance: while remaining open to dialogue with the United States, the Kremlin insists it will not compromise on what it views as vital national security interests in Ukraine. The remarks come amid ongoing diplomatic maneuvering between Washington, Moscow, and Kyiv, where tangible breakthroughs have so far remained elusive.
This position underscores the challenges facing any potential peace negotiations, as both sides continue to emphasize strength and resolve on the battlefield.
