Moscow: Russia on Wednesday announced that the momentum to reach a peace agreement in Ukraine, which had gained traction following a summit in Alaska between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump earlier this year, has been 'largely exhausted.'

According to Anadolu Agency, Putin and Trump held a three-hour closed-door meeting in Anchorage, Alaska, on August 15, marking the first direct negotiations between Russian and US presidents since the war in Ukraine began in February 2022. While initial reactions from both nations were positive, disagreements over land swaps and Ukrainian security guarantees with Europe stalled any potential peace agreement.

Following the summit, Trump labeled Russia as a "paper tiger" and considered supplying Ukraine with long-range Tomahawk missiles to enhance its capabilities against Russia. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov expressed frustration over the situation, stating that the initial positive momentum from Anchorage has been diminished by opponents and supporters of the ongoing conflict. He specifically criticized European countries for their 'destructive activity.'

Regarding the New START Treaty focused on nuclear arms reduction, Ryabkov noted that the US has not yet responded to Putin's proposal to maintain the treaty's central limits for an additional year, beyond its current expiration in February 2026. This proposal is contingent on the US refraining from actions that could disrupt strategic stability.

Trump, on Sunday, appeared to endorse Russia's proposal, describing it as a 'good idea.' Additionally, Ryabkov mentioned ongoing yet stagnant discussions between Russia and the US on prisoner exchanges, emphasizing the lack of progress towards a peace deal.

On the controversial issue of Tomahawk missile deliveries to Ukraine, Ryabkov urged US leaders to approach the matter with caution, warning of severe consequences should the missiles be used with American involvement. He also addressed potential travel restrictions for Russian diplomats across the EU, warning that Russia would reciprocate with similar measures.

The Financial Times reported that the EU is considering limiting the movement of Russian diplomats, citing a 'surge in sabotage attempts' allegedly led by spies under diplomatic cover. This initiative, spearheaded by the Czech Republic, would require Russian diplomats in EU capitals to notify authorities of their travel plans in advance.