The Kremlin stated on Monday that continuing peace talks with Ukraine serves Russia's strategic interests despite recent deadlock. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized Moscow's commitment to negotiations while maintaining its position on territorial demands in eastern Ukraine. The statement comes amid reports that Russian officials question the value of continuing talks without Ukrainian concessions.

Peace negotiations have stalled over Russia's insistence that Ukraine cede control of remaining areas in the Donbas region that Moscow doesn't currently control. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has repeatedly rejected these demands, creating a fundamental impasse. Bloomberg News reported that Russian officials increasingly see little reason to continue U.S.-led talks unless Kyiv signals willingness to give up territory.

Peskov stressed that Russia remains open to negotiations while prioritizing its own interests above all else. The Kremlin spokesman noted that Moscow values U.S. mediation efforts but trusts itself "first and foremost" in guiding its approach. The statement suggests Russia seeks to maintain diplomatic engagement while holding firm on territorial objectives, potentially positioning itself for future negotiations or alternative strategies.