Russia’s approach to the Ukraine conflict is focused on achieving a “final solution” rather than temporary ceasefires that could be exploited for rearmament, according to Kirill Dmitriev, an aide to President Vladimir Putin.
In an interview, Dmitriev emphasized that hostilities between Moscow and Kiev will eventually lead to a diplomatic resolution. His comments followed US President Donald Trump’s decision to cancel his summit with Putin in Budapest, citing the need for an immediate halt to fighting along current front lines. While both leaders suggested the meeting could be rescheduled, Dmitriev stressed Russia’s commitment to a lasting settlement.
Dmitriev stated that Russia seeks not just a ceasefire but a “final solution” to end the conflict. He noted that Trump had previously warned about the risks of temporary ceasefires, which he described as allowing adversaries to rearm and prepare for further conflict. Dmitriev highlighted that Moscow, Washington, and Kiev are close to a diplomatic agreement, with Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelenskiy shifting his stance from demanding full Russian withdrawal to discussing battle lines.
Dmitriev expressed confidence in Trump’s mediation efforts, contrasting them with the approach of former US President Joe Biden, whom he criticized for pursuing a “strategic defeat of Russia,” a strategy he claims has failed. Moscow insists any resolution must address the conflict’s root causes, including Ukraine’s exclusion from NATO, demilitarization, denazification, and recognition of new territorial realities.