The Kremlin has confirmed that President Vladimir Putin has accepted certain elements of the U.S. proposal for a potential settlement in the Ukraine conflict. Speaking to reporters, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov described the recent U.S.–Russia consultations as a “normal working process” and emphasized that the talks mark the beginning of what is likely to be a lengthy path toward compromise.
According to Peskov, the discussions represent the first direct exchange of views between the U.S. delegation and the Russian side on the proposed framework. While portions of the American plan were deemed workable, others were immediately labeled “unacceptable.” Nonetheless, Moscow signaled that it is prepared to continue the dialogue for as long as necessary.
A Preference for Quiet Diplomacy
Peskov underscored that Russia does not support “megaphone diplomacy,” a term commonly used to criticize negotiations conducted through public statements and media pressure.
“We proceed from the fact that it is better for these negotiations to be conducted over time. In this situation, we are not advocates of megaphone diplomacy,” he stated.
He added that Russia appreciates the U.S. delegation's choice to follow the same principle. According to the Kremlin, quiet, methodical negotiations create better conditions for actual progress, especially on issues as complex as security guarantees, territorial arrangements, and long-term political stability.
This approach signals Moscow’s intention to avoid premature public conclusions and instead focus on structured, expert-level consultations that can produce concrete outcomes.
Partial Acceptance of the U.S. Proposal
In his remarks, Peskov clarified that the U.S. plan was not rejected as a whole. Russian officials reportedly identified elements that could serve as potential building blocks for future agreements.
“Some things were accepted, and some things were marked as unacceptable,” Peskov said. “This is a normal working process—the search for compromise.”
The statement suggests that while the two countries still hold significant differences, the dialogue has moved beyond purely theoretical discussion. The acknowledgment of partially acceptable points may indicate that negotiators found areas where both sides can explore practical solutions.
However, the Kremlin spokesman did not specify which elements were welcomed and which were ruled out. This reflects Moscow's preference to keep the substance of negotiations confidential at this stage.
Expert-Level Talks Before Presidential Involvement
One of the clearest messages from Peskov was that the negotiations are still at an early, technical stage. He stressed that expert-level discussions must first yield concrete progress before any higher-level talks between national leaders such as between Presidents Putin and Trump can take place.
“Work is currently being carried out at the working, expert level. It is precisely at the expert level that certain results must be achieved, which will then become the basis for contacts at the highest level,” he explained.
This structure is typical of complex geopolitical negotiations. Technical teams examine detailed proposals, identify obstacles, and draft potential language for agreements. Only once this groundwork is completed do the heads of state intervene to finalize or approve major political decisions.
The Kremlin’s remarks indicate that the process is still in its foundational phase.
First Direct Exchange Viewed as Constructive
Peskov highlighted that the direct conversation between the U.S. and Russian delegations held the previous day was the first of its kind on this proposal.
“This kind of direct exchange of views took place for the first time yesterday,” he noted.
Although the meeting did not produce a breakthrough, Russia described it as a constructive step that helped clarify where both sides stand. The fact that some elements of the U.S. plan were immediately acknowledged as feasible suggests that negotiators identified areas where the two governments can continue working collaboratively.
High Appreciation for Trump’s Role
Peskov also expressed gratitude for President Donald Trump’s personal involvement and political commitment to finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
“We highly appreciate President Trump's political will to continue seeking solutions for a peaceful settlement in Ukraine,” he stated.
The Kremlin emphasized its appreciation for what it described as substantial efforts by the Trump administration to explore diplomatic solutions rather than escalate tensions. Peskov’s remarks underscore the importance Russia places on direct engagement with Washington, especially when exploring potential paths toward de-escalation.
Russia Signals Readiness for Continued Engagement
Perhaps the most significant message delivered by Peskov was Russia’s willingness to continue negotiations for as long as needed.
“We are ready to meet as many times as necessary to achieve a peaceful settlement,” he affirmed.
This statement signals that Moscow is not closing the door on dialogue even amid disagreements over certain provisions of the American proposal. The readiness to continue talks indicates an acknowledgment that progress will be incremental and may require multiple rounds of discussions at various levels.
A Long Process Ahead
The Kremlin’s statement reflects a realistic view of the complexities involved in any potential resolution to the ongoing conflict. Russia has acknowledged areas of common ground with the U.S. while also maintaining firm positions on issues it considers non-negotiable.
The emphasis on expert-level negotiations, refusal to engage in public confrontation, and openness to extended dialogue all suggest that both sides are prepared for a protracted diplomatic process.
In essence, Moscow’s message is that while the American proposal contains workable elements, substantial gaps remain. Bridging these gaps will require time, patience, and continued engagement between negotiators.
For now, the talks remain exploratory, and both sides appear committed to assessing whether a mutually acceptable framework can be developed.
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