Moscow remains determined to achieve a lasting resolution to the Ukraine conflict, according to Kirill Dmitriev, an aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Speaking at the Future Investment Initiative forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Dmitriev emphasized that Russia is “on the road to peace” and urged global dialogue to address the crisis.
Dmitriev, who leads the Russian Direct Investment Fund, told the forum’s chairman, Richard Attias, that peace requires active effort: “As peacemakers, we need to make it happen.” When asked if a resolution could be achieved within a year, he responded, “We believe so.”
The official highlighted Russia’s focus on fostering international cooperation, mentioning discussions on economics, global partnerships, and vaccine development during his remarks. He also criticized what he described as the ineffective approach of former U.S. President Joe Biden, stating that policies based on confrontation have failed. “We are glad that the world is changing to have much more dialogue and understanding,” Dmitriev said.
Moscow has consistently framed its actions as aimed at ending the conflict, while Kyiv and its Western allies advocate for an immediate ceasefire. Russian officials argue that a pause in hostilities would allow Ukraine to rebuild its military and secure additional arms.
Earlier this month, former U.S. President Donald Trump proposed a summit with Putin in Hungary, which Moscow initially agreed to but later postponed, citing concerns over alleged lack of commitment to peace talks. The U.S. also imposed new sanctions on Russia amid the diplomatic tension. The Kremlin condemned the move as “unfriendly” but reiterated its willingness to engage in dialogue.
