The Kremlin Says Ukraine Must Negotiate With Russia Sooner Or Later

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday Ukraine should negotiate with Russia sooner or later, but expect Kyiv's negotiating position to worsen day by day.

In a statement to reporters on Thursday, a Kremlin spokesman said Russia remains open to political and diplomatic settlements and wants peace.

However, if such an opportunity does not exist, he said Russia will continue to fight to protect its own security for the benefit of future generations.

"Ukraine must know that sooner or later they must negotiate, but from a much worse position. The position of the Kyiv regime will worsen day by day," Peskov said.

Moscow, whose troops are seeking control of the city of Pokrovsk in eastern Ukraine, accused Ukrainian officials of refusing to engage in peace negotiations.

On the other hand, Kyiv said Moscow's requirement to end the war was unacceptable and would be tantamount to asking them to surrender.