Putin is ready to discuss peace in Ukraine but wants to achieve goals: Kremlin
Russia has ramped up its attacks on Ukraine in recent weeks.
MOSCOW - Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready to move toward a peace settlement for Ukraine, but Moscow's main objective is to achieve its goals, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told state television in a clip published on July 20.
Peskov said that the world was now accustomed to Donald Trump's sometimes "harsh" rhetoric but pointed out that the US President had also underscored in comments on Russia that he would continue to search for a peace deal.
"President Putin has repeatedly spoken of his desire to bring the Ukrainian settlement to a peaceful conclusion as soon as possible. This is a long process, it requires effort, and it is not easy," Mr Peskov said.
"The main thing for us is to achieve our goals. Our goals are clear," he added, but did not elaborate on the goals.
On July 14 , Mr Trump announced a tougher stance on Russia, pledging a new wave of military aid to Ukraine, including Patriot missile defence systems. He also gave Russia a 50-day deadline to agree to a ceasefire or face additional sanctions. REUTERS

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