Russia and Turkey are in contact regarding Ankara’s potential resale of Russian-made S-400 air defense systems to a third country—a move that requires Moscow’s approval, the Kremlin confirmed. Dmitry Peskov, spokesperson for the Russian presidency, acknowledged ongoing discussions with Turkey over the S-400 issue, describing it as a “highly sensitive matter.”
Speaking to France’s AFP news agency, Peskov responded to a report by Turkey’s Hürriyet newspaper suggesting Ankara may sell the S-400 systems—originally purchased in 2017—to a Gulf state. “We have held talks with the Turkish side on this issue and will continue our dialogue with them on this matter,” he said.
Peskov also addressed separate reporting by Reuters indicating President Vladimir Putin is leaning toward escalating Russia’s war in Ukraine to seize full control of the Donbas region. “Russia remains open to achieving its goals through negotiations,” he stated, while adding that Moscow believes Kyiv currently has no interest in talks—hence Russia’s continuation of military operations.
The Kremlin further accused Ukraine of escalating “terrorist” attacks against the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant—an act it called “extremely dangerous.” Peskov specifically charged Ukrainian forces with targeting non-military infrastructure and facilities directly linked to the nuclear plant.