Why the Kremlin is "backing down" - Russia suddenly talks about negotiations

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov stated that Moscow is ready to consider new options for settling the war against Ukraine, but with the condition of taking into account the situation on the battlefield. He also noted that the US supposedly better understands Russia's position. At the same time, Ryabkov blamed Kyiv and the West for the lack of progress.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov stated that Moscow is ready to consider new options for settling the war against Ukraine. In an interview with Russian media, cited by Reuters, Ryabkov emphasized that any initiatives must take into account the situation on the battlefield. He also claims that the US has supposedly demonstrated a willingness to dialogue and better understands the Kremlin's position. At the same time, the Russian diplomat again shifted responsibility for the impasse in negotiations onto Kyiv and its Western partners, stating that it is important how much Washington is able to influence the decisions of Ukraine and Europe. Ryabkov commented on US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's statement about the need for diplomatic efforts, noting that Moscow is ready to consider his new proposals. The article also notes that diplomatic contacts between Russia and the US have faced serious difficulties, and the war in Iran has become an additional factor. In addition, Ryabkov reported Russia's interest in negotiations on nuclear arms control, as the previous START agreement expired in February. The material also cites other contradictory statements from the parties: a representative of Ukraine's GUR does not expect a truce this year, and the Kremlin sees no prerequisites for ending the conflict.