Russian diplomat Vasily Nebenzya urges Ukraine to halt military mobilization as proof of commitment to peace talks

Russian diplomat Vasily Nebenzya urges Ukraine to halt military mobilization as proof of commitment to peace talks
[Moscow, June 29, 2025] — Russia’s permanent representative to the United Nations, Vasily Nebenzya, expressed doubts about Ukraine’s sincerity regarding peace negotiations. He stated that if Kyiv genuinely desires peace, it should stop mobilizing new troops and begin the process of demobilization.

In an interview with Russia’s state media RT, Nebenzya said,
“We need to know where the situation is ultimately heading. We must understand how sincerely the Ukrainian side wants to participate in talks and what their position is. Currently, they are insisting on returning to the 1991 borders, which is unrealistic.”

He added,
“If they are truly interested in establishing peace, they must halt mobilization and start demobilization. But considering their general reluctance and tendency to avoid negotiations, we cannot be very optimistic about their sincerity.”

The Russian diplomat’s remarks come amid escalating conflict in Ukraine and increased Western military aid to Kyiv.

Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin also stated that Moscow is ready to resume talks in Istanbul for peace negotiations, with draft agreements from both sides forming the basis of discussions.

Analysts believe that Russia is simultaneously sending a message of willingness to negotiate while pressuring Ukraine to stop its military buildup, complicating the prospects for a practical political resolution.