Russia: War in Ukraine to Continue Until Kyiv Makes Decisions, Says Kremlin

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated on February 4, 2026, that Russia will continue its military campaign in Ukraine until Kyiv makes decisions capable of ending the war—implicitly demanding Kyiv meet Moscow’s conditions. Peskov emphasized Russia’s unchanged position, known to both Ukrainian and American negotiators, ahead of new peace talks starting today in Abu Dhabi involving Ukrainian, Russian, and U.S. representatives. Kyiv rejects Moscow’s demand to cede control over parts of the still-disputed Donbas region. Meanwhile, regarding India’s plans to diversify oil imports, Peskov downplayed any novelty, noting India has long sourced oil from multiple countries—including Russia. His remarks follow Indian Oil Minister Piyush Goyal’s statement on energy diversification for security, and former U.S. President Donald Trump’s February 2 announcement—unconfirmed by India—about a U.S.-India deal to halt Russian oil purchases. Peskov also confirmed low-level Russia-France talks are ongoing but offered no details on potential Putin-Macron dialogue, despite French President Emmanuel Macron’s expressed desire to re-engage with Putin on Ukraine.