“Russian statements claiming that 'the dynamics of negotiations depend on Kyiv' are yet another manipulation,” said Yermak.
“These words are uttered in parallel with missile strikes on Ukrainian cities and attempts to destroy critical infrastructure.”
He stressed that Russia demonstrates daily through its actions that it is not ready for peace. At the same time, it seeks to impose a distorted narrative on the world, portraying the Kremlin as “open” to negotiations while blaming others for the ongoing war.
“The truth is simple: it is Moscow that initiated and continues to drive this war,” Yermak added.
“It is the Kremlin that blocks all peace initiatives. Ukraine, on the other hand, consistently advocates for a ceasefire and peace on just and fair terms.”
Earlier, Peskov, discussing a potential new round of talks between Russian and Ukrainian delegations, claimed the process depends on Kyiv’s position and the effectiveness of U.S. mediation. He reiterated the Kremlin’s stance that negotiations must account for “the actual situation on the ground.”
On June 14, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin, in a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump, reportedly confirmed Russia’s readiness to continue talks with Ukraine after June 22, according to Russian propagandists.
Istanbul talks on June 2
On June 2, a second meeting of Ukrainian and Russian delegations took place in Istanbul, lasting over an hour, according to Russian media. The Russian delegation was led by Vladimir Putin’s aide, Vladimir Medinsky, as in the first round on May 16. Ukraine’s delegation was headed by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov.
After the talks, Umerov told reporters that the parties agreed only on a new prisoner exchange. Ukraine proposed a full ceasefire and a leaders’ meeting, awaiting Russia’s response by the end of the month. Both sides had a week to review memorandums exchanged during the meeting. Russia had refused to share its document until the Istanbul meeting, while Ukraine provided its memorandum in advance.
On June 13, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stated that Ukraine supports negotiations that lead to decisions and solutions. He noted that Ukraine demonstrated constructiveness at the previous meeting, but Russia showed “complete inadequacy” by submitting a memorandum with ultimatums.
“They haven’t changed their rhetoric of ultimatums; they demand our capitulation,” said Sybiha.