Moscow: Russia has no hidden agenda in its stance on the Ukraine conflict, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said Monday. Speaking to reporters, Ryabkov dismissed any notion of a concealed strategy, stressing that Russia's position is based on its national interests. "There is no double meaning, no hidden agenda, and no attempt to play to the public. Our position is deeply rooted in our national interests, which we cannot betray. We must defend them," he said.

According to Anadolu Agency, Ryabkov stated that Moscow-Washington ties are "balancing on the brink of a rupture," attributing this to the administration under former President Joe Biden, which he claimed "bet on a hybrid war" aiming for a "strategic defeat" of Russia. He also commented on the stance of US President Donald Trump's team, noting their interest in resuming dialogue with Russia despite contradictions in their statements.

"We are ready for dialogue, as we have stated repeatedly, including discussions on a settlement in Ukraine. But this can only happen on an equal and mutually acceptable basis," Ryabkov added, emphasizing the necessity of acknowledging the realities on the ground and addressing the root causes of the crisis for any resolution. He mentioned a "small window of opportunity" for normalizing Russia-US relations under the Trump administration, stressing that seizing this opportunity depends entirely on the US.

Ryabkov warned against using ultimatums and aggressive rhetoric in negotiations with Russia, stating, "The language of ultimatums, provocative statements, and attempts to make us accept unrealistic demands in exchange for supposed favors will not work in relations and dialogue with Russia."

Regarding the New START Treaty, Ryabkov expressed a grim outlook on its possible extension. He recalled the US's position during Trump's first term, which involved holding talks in a trilateral format with China's participation. Moscow suggested five-way talks, including France and the UK. "We still have to figure out what the essence of Washington's policy is in this area," he remarked. The New START Treaty, signed in 2010 and extended in 2021, aims to control and reduce strategic nuclear forces used by the US and Russia. However, in February 2023, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that Russia suspended its participation in the treaty, which is set to expire in February 2026.