Kremlin sets conditions for partial ceasefire in Ukraine war

The Russian leadership has hinted at the possibility of a partial ceasefire in attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. The conditions, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, quoted by the BBC, would be that Ukraine halt attacks on Russian oil and gas facilities and end ‘blackmail’ in the energy sector.

The remarks come amid a dispute over the Druzhba oil pipeline between Kyiv, Budapest and Bratislava. Ukraine says part of the pipeline has been damaged by Russian strikes, while Hungary accuses Kyiv of restricting oil transit and has blocked an EU loan to Ukraine.

Moscow has also complained about Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian energy infrastructure, including gas pipelines leading to Turkey. According to Russia, the attacks are contributing to rising oil and gas prices.

Peskov also confirmed that Russia will not take part in the planned talks between the US and Ukraine, due to take place on Saturday. He described them as bilateral contacts.

However, he said the Kremlin hopes to resume trilateral talks in the near future and regards the current hiatus as temporary. The three sides last met in Geneva on 17 and 18 February. Following the talks, a 500–500 prisoner exchange took place on 5 and 6 March.

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