Russia Says It Will Not Halt War in Ukraine Until Its Goals Are Met

The Kremlin has declared that Russia aims to end the war in Ukraine quickly — but only after reaching its initial military targets. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov asserted that negotiations have stalled because Western nations are urging Kyiv to keep fighting rather than engage in diplomacy, even as he commended Kazakhstan for its potential role in mediating peace.

Peskov emphasized that Russia prefers a diplomatic resolution, yet any agreement must meet the objectives set at the start of its “special military operation” in February 2022. He said Russia is not blocking talks, but that real progress depends on Ukraine accepting the goals Moscow demands.

He added that while the battlefield remains active, he expects growing domestic support within Ukraine for a resolution on Russia’s terms — despite internal opposition. Regarding diplomacy, Peskov described Kazakhstan as a “privileged partner” and referenced both a forthcoming state visit by its president and forthcoming Russian visits to India as part of broader international engagement.