Western arms undermine peace, talks await Kiev's response: Kremlin
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The Kremlin affirmed that Moscow remains fully cognizant of Europe's ongoing role in sustaining the war in Ukraine.
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Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, undated (RIA Novosti)
Russia has accused European nations of derailing prospects for peace in Ukraine by continuing to supply arms to Kiev, with the Kremlin portraying Western policies as deliberately prolonging the war. The remarks come amid intensified Western coordination on military aid and strategic planning for Ukraine.
On Tuesday, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters that "these actions [delivery of weapons to Kiev], rather, they probably do not lie in the mainstream of attempts to promote a peaceful settlement." He added, "The line that the Europeans have chosen is absolutely aimed at promoting in every possible way the continuation of military actions."
The remarks come amid renewed efforts by both the US and EU to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities. Washington recently resumed arms shipments, paused earlier this month, including Patriot missiles and artillery rounds.
'Moscow is fully aware of Europe's role in Ukraine war'
Meanwhile, European leaders are shifting toward long-term investment in Ukraine's domestic arms industry, with funding now directed at boosting the production of key systems like the Bohdana howitzer and military drones.
The EU's "Readiness 2030" initiative also aims to strengthen collective defense infrastructure across the continent, reflecting a growing push for strategic autonomy in the face of US unpredictability.
Peskov emphasized that Moscow is fully aware of Europe’s continuing role in supporting Ukraine’s war effort. He also addressed the stalled diplomatic process, stating that Russia is still awaiting Ukraine’s proposal for dates to resume talks.
"No. As the president said last week, we are waiting, waiting for proposals from the Ukrainian side on possible dates. As soon as the dates are agreed upon, and we hope that this will be done, we will immediately inform you about it," he noted.
Read more: Moscow strategic outlook shifts as EU militarization increases
Peskov also commented on Russia's list of "unfriendly" countries, suggesting it is subject to revision. "Of course, the list of unfriendly countries can be revised, this is not a doctrine. A country is unfriendly as long as it takes unfriendly actions towards our country." He added that improved relations could lead to the removal of certain states from the designation.
Strategic rift
The Kremlin's statements come ahead of a high-level aid summit in Rome, where US and European officials are expected to coordinate further military and infrastructure support for Ukraine.
The comments also come just days after Trump took a markedly tougher stance on Russia, signaling the possibility of new sanctions.
In a sharp break from earlier restrained rhetoric, Trump publicly criticized President Vladimir Putin for showing no willingness to halt the violence and discussed with both Kiev and Berlin further efforts to strengthen Ukraine’s air defenses.
"It’s a very tough situation," Trump said. "I told you I was very unhappy with my call with President Putin. He wants to go all the way, just keep killing people, it’s no good."
