Reuters reported that on May 10, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia would ask the US and Europe to stop arms assistance to Ukraine in any potential ceasefire.
Mr. Peskov explained that continuing to provide weapons will create an advantage for Ukraine and motivate the country to continue to extend general mobilization, bringing more soldiers to the front line. The spokesman said: "Ukraine will take advantage of that time to train new forces and give current soldiers a break. So why should we give Ukraine such an advantage?
In an interview with ABC News, Mr. Peskov reiterated the concerns raised by Russian President Vladimir Putin since March 13 and presented them in a phone call with US President Donald Trump just a few days later.
According to Mr. Peskov, President Putin supports the idea of a ceasefire, but believes that some issues need to be clarified before an agreement can be reached. Mr. Putin emphasized that the current military situation is leaning towards Russia as Moscow's forces continuously gain advantages and advance firmly in many directions.
However, if the sides agree to a ceasefire but the US and European countries continue to provide weapons to Ukraine every day, that will give Kiev more advantages.
Regarding the recent showing of increasing impatience for Russia by US President Donald Trump, even saying that President Putin was deliberately "time" in resolving the conflict with Ukraine, Mr. Peskov denied this, and emphasized that Ukraine alone was the one who delayed the mediation process when he repeatedly refused direct negotiations.
Mr. Peskov noted that President Putin is doing everything possible to resolve the problem peacefully and diplomatically. However, if there are no more peaceful means or feasible diplomatic solutions, Russia will be forced to continue a special military campaign.
In the latest development, on the morning of May 11 (local time), President Putin continued to express his willingness to negotiate directly with Ukraine. He even suggested both a location and a time for the discussions, starting on May 15 in the capital Istanbul ( Turkey).
The Russian leader said he would hold talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Putin later on May 11, in the hope of holding talks next week in Istanbul.
Mr. Putin emphasized that Russia will not set any preconditions for direct dialogue with Ukraine, and expressed his hope that the negotiations will take place seriously and bring long-term results, including sustainable peace.
