Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Ryabkov responded to President Trump’s statements regarding Russia on the 15th, stating that any attempts by the US to set conditions or even a final ultimatum against Russia are unacceptable. Should diplomatic channels prove ineffective, Russia will continue its special military operation against Ukraine.
Ryabykov, during a media appearance in Moscow on the same day, declared that Russia’s stance on this matter is “unchangeable,” and expressed hope for the “extreme seriousness” from the US and NATO. He mentioned that Russian President Putin has said more than once, “We are willing to negotiate, and diplomatic approaches are better for us.”
On the 14th, Trump stated that the US would provide military aid to Ukraine through NATO, adding that if Russia fails to reach a peace agreement with Ukraine within 50 days, the US would impose “very strict” tariffs on Russia.
In an interview with the media in Moscow on the 15th, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Grushko expressed Russia’s stance against the US’s intention to provide weapons to Ukraine through NATO, which once again demonstrates “NATO’s actual lack of interest in peace.”
Regarding Trump’s threat to impose “very strict” tariffs on Russia, Grushko remarked that the US’s statement was “mysterious” and “any agreement must be predicated on negotiation, but the Ukrainian side currently abstains from negotiations.” He pointed out that the US’s stance on the 14th did not call for a response from Ukraine to Russia’s negotiation desires, indicating that Western countries have no interest in facilitating a successful peace process between Russia and Ukraine, further proving that NATO countries truly care about prolonging the conflict to exhaust Russia.
Russian Press Secretary Peskov stated on the 15th that Russia is waiting for Ukraine to propose dates for the third round of direct talks between Russia and Ukraine, but has yet to receive any proposals. From recent European statements, they seem more inclined to see the conflict escalate. Decisions by the US, NATO, and EU appear to send a signal of continuing warfare towards Ukraine.
The Russo-Ukrainian conflict is stirring multifaceted competition.