Moscow: The US has taken several steps in the 'right direction' but questions remain over the settlement in Ukraine, Russia's deputy foreign minister said on Monday. Speaking at a discussion hosted by the Valdai forum, Sergei Ryabkov highlighted the US's acknowledgment of the risks associated with endless NATO expansion, describing it as a positive shift despite ongoing disagreements over Ukraine.
According to Anadolu Agency, a 28-point plan to end the Ukraine war, initiated by US President Donald Trump, is under refinement by Ukraine and its allies. Russia insists any peace settlement must recognize its control over captured Ukrainian territories, maintain Kyiv's neutrality, and impose limits on Ukraine's military. In response, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed willingness to drop Ukraine's NATO membership bid in exchange for Western security guarantees, though he opposes ceding territory.
Ryabkov emphasized that normalization requires time, political will, and equal cooperation respecting Russia's security interests. He noted Moscow's vigilance over whether Washington is genuinely altering its hostile policies. He also raised concerns about the Pentagon's pursuit of military superiority, citing the 'Golden Dome' missile defense system as a destabilizing factor.
On nuclear issues, Ryabkov warned of reciprocal actions if the US resumes nuclear testing, indicating Russia's readiness to ensure its national security through military-technical measures. He mentioned growing nuclear collaboration in Europe, including between the UK and France, and noted discussions on a pan-European nuclear shield complementing NATO's arrangements.
Ryabkov addressed Russia's abandonment of its moratorium on land-based intermediate-range missiles due to perceived threats, such as the deployment of the US Dark Eagle hypersonic missile system in Europe. He also mentioned potential enhancements to the Russia-Belarus Union State's defense, including the deployment of Oreshnik missile systems in Belarus.
He concluded by expressing Russia's hope to avoid negative scenarios following the New START Treaty's expiration in February 2026, suggesting President Vladimir Putin's proposal to extend key quantitative limits for a year if the US refrains from undermining Russia's nuclear deterrence.