The Kremlin said on Tuesday that a Christmas ceasefire proposed by Ukraine would only be possible if it formed part of a broader peace agreement, rejecting the idea of a temporary truce without wider political progress. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow did not support a ceasefire that would simply pause the fighting and allow Kyiv to regroup and prepare for further military action.
“Russia is not interested in a ceasefire that gives Ukraine time to rearm and strengthen its positions,” Peskov said.
Security Guarantees Still Unclear
Peskov added that Moscow had not yet received details of proposals for NATO-style security guarantees for Ukraine, which U.S. and European officials have said Washington is prepared to offer as part of future arrangements.
He said Russia would need to see the specifics of any such guarantees before responding, reiterating that Moscow views NATO involvement in Ukraine as a core security concern.
Ongoing War, No Breakthrough in Sight
Ukraine has called for a Christmas ceasefire as fighting continues along the front lines nearly three years after Russia launched its full-scale invasion. Kyiv has previously accused Moscow of using ceasefires to reposition forces, while Russia has made similar claims against Ukraine.
There has been no sign of an imminent diplomatic breakthrough, with both sides maintaining hardline positions and intense fighting continuing despite winter conditions.
With information from Reuters.