Russian Diplomat Casts Doubt on US-Russia Relations and Ukraine Peace
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov has voiced profound skepticism regarding the current state of relations between the United States and Russia, asserting that progress on peace efforts for Ukraine has been 'largely undermined' . Speaking recently, Ryabkov described the bilateral relationship as a 'certain edifice… that has cracked and is collapsing' . These comments come approximately two months after a summit in Anchorage, Alaska, between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump, which aimed to foster a peace settlement in Ukraine and improve diplomatic ties .
Undermined Momentum and Blame Attribution
Ryabkov indicated that the 'powerful momentum' generated by the Anchorage summit in favor of agreements has been 'exhausted' . He attributed this deterioration primarily to the 'destructive actions' of European countries and the United States . The diplomat emphasized that while Moscow was prepared to 'rebuild' relations, he observed no reciprocal movement from the American side . Furthermore, Ryabkov noted Russia's withdrawal from an agreement with the US to destroy weapons-grade plutonium and warned of decisive responses to any US nuclear tests .
Warnings Issued Over Potential Missile Transfers to Ukraine
A significant point of contention highlighted by Ryabkov is the potential transfer of long-range Tomahawk missiles from the US to Ukraine. He warned that such a decision would have 'severe consequences' and constitute a 'serious escalatory step' that would result in a 'qualitative change' in the situation . Ryabkov urged Washington to approach the matter 'soberly, prudently and responsibly' , suggesting that the hypothetical use of such systems would necessitate the direct involvement of American personnel .
Conflicting Narratives and Ongoing Diplomatic Tensions
Despite Ryabkov's pessimistic assessment, other Russian officials have presented a more optimistic view. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov contradicted Ryabkov's statements, insisting that efforts by Russia and the United States to end the conflict in Ukraine are still 'alive' and that work continues based on the agreements from the August summit . Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has adopted a tougher stance towards Moscow since the Anchorage meeting . Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has also appealed to Trump to broker peace in Ukraine, drawing parallels to his efforts in the Middle East . The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has seen both sides deploy AI-assisted drones, marking an 'AI arms race' that is fundamentally altering battlefield dynamics .
8 Comments
Africa
The warning about missile transfers is serious, as it could indeed escalate the conflict significantly. However, Ukraine has a right to defend itself, and Western support is a response to invasion.
ZmeeLove
The article correctly points out the breakdown of initial summit momentum, which is disappointing for peace prospects. Yet, the deep-seated mistrust and conflicting national interests were always going to make true progress incredibly challenging.
Habibi
No reciprocal movement? Russia needs to withdraw from Ukraine before expecting any goodwill.
Comandante
The blame on Europe and the US is spot on. They are prolonging this conflict for their own interests.
Donatello
While Ryabkov highlights legitimate concerns about strained relations, it's hard to ignore Russia's own role in escalating tensions. Both sides bear responsibility for the current deadlock.
lettlelenok
The 'AI arms race' is a frightening development, pushing the conflict into new, unpredictable territory. While diplomatic efforts are reportedly still 'alive,' the technological escalation suggests a widening gap between rhetoric and reality.
Eugene Alta
Ryabkov's 'warnings' are thinly veiled threats. We shouldn't be intimidated by their rhetoric.
Katchuka
Ryabkov is just stating facts. The West consistently undermines any genuine peace efforts.