Moscow: The Kremlin on Wednesday described Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's demand for nuclear weapons as 'bordering on madness.' Speaking to journalists in the Russian capital, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov criticized the notion that Ukraine should be provided nuclear arms in sufficient quantity to deter Russia.
According to Anadolu Agency, Peskov highlighted the importance of the non-proliferation regime for nuclear weapons. Zelenskyy, in an interview with British journalist Piers Morgan, suggested that Kyiv should be given nuclear weapons to ensure its security if Ukraine's NATO membership takes too long. He questioned what guarantees Ukraine would have if NATO accession remains uncertain, asking whether they would be given nuclear weapons or enough missiles to stop Russia.
Peskov further emphasized that Ukraine's readiness for negotiations should be based on concrete measures rather than rhetoric. He also expressed hope that European politicians would recognize the dangers of discussing nuclear armament, despite what he described as a decline in political competence among current European leaders.
Regarding US President Donald Trump's plan to 'take over' Gaza, Peskov stated that the Kremlin noted his remarks and reiterated Russia's support for a two-state solution in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This approach, he said, is backed by an overwhelming majority of countries involved in the issue.
Peskov also addressed the ongoing relations between Russia and the US, noting that while there are intensified contacts between individual agencies, details remain limited. He commented on Zelenskyy's legitimacy, citing significant de jure legitimacy issues but reaffirmed Russia's openness to negotiations.
On the topic of the Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash, Peskov declined to comment on the preliminary report by Kazakhstan's Ministry of Transport. The report is being studied by relevant Russian agencies, but the Kremlin does not find it appropriate to comment at this stage. The crash, which occurred in December 2024, resulted in the death of 38 people and has led to speculation about a possible attack. Azerbaijani officials have suggested the crash was caused by a Russian missile system, with President Vladimir Putin offering condolences and apologies.