Russia Rules Out Peace Talks with Ukraine

Russian Presidential Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov has reiterated that there are currently no grounds for negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine. Peskov acknowledged that several countries, including Qatar, have offered to mediate talks, highlighting Qatar's role in facilitating the return of Ukrainian children taken to Russia. Despite growing discussions about potential peace negotiations, Russia remains firm in its position, stating it will not engage with Ukraine unless Kyiv renounces its NATO ambitions and withdraws its troops from occupied territories. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed readiness for negotiations, but the Kremlin's stance suggests a lack of interest in peace, with NATO officials indicating that Russia seeks to expand its territorial control. Concerns are mounting that the political landscape, particularly with the incoming U.S. administration under Donald Trump, could influence the dynamics of the conflict and negotiations in the future.