MOSCOW – The Kremlin on Wednesday firmly rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s discussion of a plan to end the ongoing conflict, asserting that Russia will continue its “special military operation” in Ukraine. This response comes after Zelenskyy announced on Tuesday his intention to present a comprehensive peace plan to U.S. President Joe Biden and potential successors.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, addressing reporters, dismissed Zelenskyy’s proposal: “This is not the first time that we have heard such statements from representatives of the Kyiv regime. We are aware of the nature of this Kyiv regime,” Peskov stated. “We are continuing our special military operation and will achieve all of our goals.”
Zelenskyy, speaking at a news conference, revealed that Ukraine’s three-week-old incursion into Russia’s Kursk region forms part of his broader strategy. While not disclosing full details, he indicated that the plan encompasses economic and diplomatic measures alongside military actions. The Ukrainian leader emphasized that the objective is to compel Moscow to end the war, partly by leveraging long-range U.S.-supplied arms to strike deep inside Russian territory – a move he is urging Washington to approve.
The Kremlin’s dismissal underscores the deep divide between Moscow and Kyiv’s perspectives on the conflict and potential resolutions. Russia currently faces the challenge of repelling the Ukrainian incursion that began on August 6, while simultaneously advancing its offensive in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine.
Peskov also addressed recent diplomatic efforts by India, acknowledging Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s stance on the need for a peaceful settlement. Modi had recently engaged in discussions with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Zelenskyy, advocating for an early, peaceful resolution to the conflict. However, Peskov tempered this acknowledgment, stating, “It is more than obvious that there is no basis for talks right now.”
The exchange highlights the complex international dynamics surrounding the conflict, with various nations attempting to mediate or influence its course. India’s efforts, while recognized, are viewed by Moscow as premature given the current military situation and political standoff.
