The Russian government has once again reiterated its stance on ending the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, setting the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from four contested regions as a key condition for peace.
According to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, Moscow demands that Ukrainian troops pull out from Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia—areas it claims as part of the Russian Federation following referendums held in 2022.
These votes, widely condemned by the international community as illegitimate, were used by Russia to justify the annexation of the territories.
In an interview with French media outlet Le Point, Peskov responded affirmatively when asked whether Russian troops would stop fighting if Ukraine withdrew.
“If Ukraine withdrew its troops from these four regions—yes,” he stated.
He further emphasized that the regions are enshrined in Russia’s constitution as “an inseparable part” of the country.
“There are still territories that, from our point of view, are occupied by the current Kyiv regime,” Peskov added, referring to ongoing military operations in the disputed zones.
The spokesperson maintained that Russia’s claim is both legal and factual, urging the Ukrainian government to relinquish control.
“This is a de jure and de facto situation,” he said.
The war, which began in February 2022, has led to thousands of deaths, widespread destruction, and a global energy crisis.
Despite numerous attempts at diplomacy, both sides have remained firm in their positions, with Ukraine vowing to reclaim all its territories and Russia holding fast to its annexation claims.