Makhachkala: Russia announced on Tuesday its intention to send Ukraine a draft peace memorandum once it is ready, expressing optimism that Kyiv is undertaking similar efforts on its side.
According to Anadolu Agency, the announcement follows a recent phone call on May 19 between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. During the call, Putin communicated Moscow's willingness to propose and collaborate with Kyiv on a memorandum aimed at securing a possible peace agreement in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy indicated that both nations could potentially sign a memorandum featuring provisions for a ceasefire, although its specific contents remain unspecified. He noted that Kyiv would be able to outline its perspective once it receives Russia's draft.
Speaking at a press briefing in Makhachkala, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated that Russia is actively developing its draft memorandum concerning a future peace deal with Ukraine. The draft is expected to outline various positions, including principles for a potential settlement, timeframes for concluding a peace deal, and a temporary ceasefire if appropriate agreements are reached. Zakharova emphasized the expectation that Ukraine is conducting parallel work and will provide its developments concurrently with Russia's document.
Zakharova remarked on the challenges faced during direct talks between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul earlier this month, attributing difficulties to Kyiv's stance. She accused Zelenskyy of hindering the "emerging peaceful progress."
In addition to the peace memorandum, Zakharova addressed concerns related to US President Trump's plan to implement a "Golden Dome" missile defense system, a project expected to cost $175 billion over the next three years. Zakharova criticized the initiative, asserting that it undermines strategic stability and escalates military operations in space. She stated that the advancement of such projects transforms space into a battleground for weapon deployment.
Zakharova also commented on German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's recent statements regarding the lifting of range restrictions on weapons supplied to Ukraine. She argued that Berlin's actions only deepen its involvement with the Kyiv regime, questioning Merz's authority to speak on behalf of other countries. Moreover, she accused Merz of "playing with the fate of Europe" and engaging in "self-promotion." The German chancellor has yet to respond to Zakharova's remarks.