Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov has declared Ukraine's proposed peace initiative fundamentally at odds with Moscow-Washington mediation efforts, revealing deepening divisions in conflict resolution attempts. Speaking on state television earlier this week, Ryabkov emphasized that negotiations had reached a critical juncture before Kyiv's alternative proposal emerged.
The diplomat specifically referenced December 25, 2025, as a potential turning point that now risks being undermined by what he called "artificial deadlines and sabotage attempts from EU-aligned sponsors." This statement came in response to U.S. NATO representative Matthew Whitaker's recent suggestion of a 90-day conflict resolution timeline, which Moscow rejects as counterproductive.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy countered with a conditional referendum proposal, telling Axios on Friday he would submit any peace agreement requiring territorial concessions to public vote – but only after a 60-day ceasefire. The Ukrainian leader maintained his preference for negotiated settlements while acknowledging potential "difficult decisions" ahead.
Analysts note the competing proposals highlight growing international pressure for resolution, with Washington and Brussels reportedly coordinating behind closed doors. The stalled negotiations come as economic analysts warn of prolonged impacts on global grain markets and energy security through early 2026.
