Elena Teslova
07 February 2025•Update: 07 February 2025
MOSCOW
The Kremlin has not received any substantive proposals from the US regarding a settlement in Ukraine, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday.
Peskov responded to remarks made by US special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, Keith Kellogg, at a news briefing in Moscow about a possible ceasefire ahead of peace talks, saying only a series of daily statements from Washington have been observed, many of which are later refuted.
"We have nothing to add on this topic yet. There are many statements and reports that are later denied, altered, or dismissed as misinformation. There is neither a need nor a desire to respond to every such claim. Until something substantive emerges, patience is required," he said.
The Kremlin spokesman emphasized that a settlement must be the result of direct negotiations.
"Russia remains ready for talks. This position has been expressed repeatedly at various levels, primarily by the head of state. Our readiness remains unchanged — Russia is open to negotiations," he stressed.
When asked about any contacts between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Peskov said he would provide updates if any substantive information became available.
"I have nothing to add on this matter. As soon as there is concrete information, we will inform you," he said.
Commenting on US sanctions against the International Criminal Court (ICC), Peskov reaffirmed that Russia does not recognize the institution and is not a party to its statute, therefore dismissing the sanctions as irrelevant to Moscow.
"We are not signatories to the ICC statute, and we do not recognize its jurisdiction. This matter concerns the Americans, who have their own stance on the ICC — it is not our concern," he said.
Trump signed the sanctions document on Thursday, accusing the ICC of acting against the interests of the US and its allies, including Israel.
According to American media reports, the executive order allows for financial and visa restrictions to be imposed on ICC employees involved in investigations against US citizens or their allies, as well as their family members.
On Nov. 21, 2024, the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. They are accused of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity in Palestine, including the Gaza Strip, between Oct. 8, 2023, and May 20, 2024.
