Putin open to meeting Zelensky pending expert-level talks: Peskov
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The Kremlin signals openness to renewed diplomacy with both Ukraine and the US, highlighting Putin’s conditions for talks with Zelensky.
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Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks with the head of the Russian-controlled Donetsk region Denis Pushilin during their meeting at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, on Monday, Aug. 4, 2025 (Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)
Russian President Vladimir Putin is not ruling out a future meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, provided that certain preparatory steps are completed, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on Monday.
Speaking to journalists, Peskov reiterated that "the president himself has always kept open the possibility of holding such a meeting" but emphasized that it would only follow “the necessary part of the work… at the expert level and the necessary distance has been covered.”
He also noted that preliminary arrangements for such high-level talks have yet to be finalized.
Addressing questions on Washington’s role in Ukraine diplomacy, Peskov described US mediation efforts as significant, particularly within the context of ongoing direct discussions between Moscow and Kiev. “These efforts are very important, including in the context of the ongoing process of direct Russian-Ukrainian negotiations,” he said. Peskov confirmed that lines of communication remain open between Russia and the United States and reiterated the Kremlin’s stance that diplomacy, not force, should guide the resolution of the Ukraine war.
Moscow values diplomatic engagement with Witkoff
Peskov also commented on the anticipated visit of US Special Envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff to Moscow.
He noted that Russia “is always glad to see Witkoff in Moscow and [is] always glad to have contacts” with him. The Kremlin views these engagements as “important, meaningful, and very useful,” he added.
Later, sources, including those in the US, confirmed to TASS that Steve Witkoff is expected to visit Russia on August 6,
"This is to be expected on Wednesday," one of the sources said. "According to the plan, August 6," another source confirmed.
Previously, US President Donald Trump stated that Witkoff could travel to Russia on Wednesday or Thursday of this week, suggesting Washington’s intent to keep diplomatic channels with Moscow active amid the broader geopolitical standoff.
The Kremlin spokesperson did not exclude the possibility of a meeting between President Putin and Witkoff during the visit, signaling potential discussions beyond Middle East affairs, possibly touching on broader US-Russia bilateral issues.
Russia’s newly claimed territories Putin's central focus
Turning to domestic matters, Peskov affirmed that incorporating Russia’s newly claimed territories remains a central focus for President Putin. “Of course, working with new Russian regions is a constant priority in the work of the head of state,” he told reporters.
The comment came ahead of Putin’s scheduled meeting with Denis Pushilin, the head of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR), reflecting ongoing efforts by the Kremlin to consolidate control and legitimize its authority over parts of eastern Ukraine.
Kremlin reaffirms commitment to Nuclear Non-Proliferation
Amid growing global concern over nuclear rhetoric, Peskov sought to underscore Moscow’s official commitment to nuclear non-proliferation.
"Russia takes a responsible position. The position of President [Vladimir] Putin is well known. Russia is very attentive to the topic of nuclear non-proliferation," he emphasized.
He urged caution in public discourse around nuclear issues and reiterated Russia’s belief that “there can be no winner in a nuclear war,” a statement intended to project strategic restraint as tensions with the West persist.
