Modi’s 'friendly' ties with Putin to help US-Ukraine-Russia peace efforts, says Kremlin

Despite Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's earlier comments about potential government changes, Peskov assured that these developments would not alter the prospects for dialogue.

India could play a pivotal role in reaching a peaceful resolution for the US and Ukraine with Russia, according to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov. Speaking to Russian daily Izvestia on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF), he highlighted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's constructive and friendly relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"You know that Modi has very, very constructive, even friendly, relations with Putin. And this allows Modi to pursue a line of obtaining first-hand information from the participants in this conflict," said Peskov.

Modi's open communication with Moscow, Kyiv, and Washington positions New Delhi to leverage its global influence for promoting a peaceful settlement, though no prerequisites or concrete plans for mediation are currently in place, Peskov noted.

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The Kremlin has reiterated its stance on the ongoing conflict, stating that Russia will continue its military operation in Ukraine until all objectives are achieved. Peskov criticised the US and Europe for their lack of interest in diplomatic solutions, while also noting that military instructors from various countries are now involved in Ukraine, both in combat and training capacities.

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In the realm of US politics, Peskov described Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris as a more predictable rival compared to Republican Donald Trump. Despite this, he indicated that there is little hope for an improved relationship between Moscow and Washington. The Kremlin brushed aside Trump’s recent claims that he could resolve the Ukraine conflict if re-elected, with Peskov expressing scepticism about any potential breakthrough in negotiations.

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Peskov downplayed the impact of Ukraine’s recent government reshuffle on peace talks with Russia. The Kremlin is monitoring the changes in Kyiv but does not foresee them influencing the negotiation process. Despite Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's earlier comments about potential government changes, Peskov assured that these developments would not alter the prospects for dialogue.

The Eastern Economic Forum, held in Vladivostok and running through Friday, the Eastern Economic Forum continues to be a significant platform for discussing global and regional issues, with Sputnik as the general information partner for the event.