Ukraine Peace Deal Unlikely Before 2026, Says Kremlin Insider

Russian negotiator Grigory Karasin says discussions between the U.S. and Russia over Ukraine are likely to continue through 2025—and possibly beyond.

No Breakthrough in Saudi Talks

This week’s 12-hour meeting in Riyadh failed to deliver major progress. “There hasn’t been a radical breakthrough yet,” Karasin said on Russian state TV.

Black Sea and Sanctions on the Table

The talks included topics like safe navigation in the Black Sea and the possible return of some Russian banks to the SWIFT payment system.

Russia Dismisses Initial U.S. Proposals

Karasin said U.S. proposals were “unacceptable” to Moscow at first, but noted that the tone improved as the discussion continued.

“A Civilized Dialogue” Despite Disagreements

Karasin described the atmosphere as constructive: “They realized they were speaking to reasonable people. That made a difference.”

Talks Are Far From Over

Karasin, a former diplomat and now a Russian senator, predicted that serious negotiations would carry on at least through the end of 2025.

U.S.: Russia Must Move First

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stressed that any meaningful progress depends on Russia before higher-level negotiations can begin.

Confusion Over Black Sea Ceasefire

The White House announced a ceasefire agreement in the Black Sea—but Russia later attached strict conditions, including sanctions relief.

Putin’s New Proposal: A Temporary Administration

On Thursday, Vladimir Putin said Ukraine should be placed under a temporary UN-backed administration before a peace deal is signed.

Russia Claims Military Advantage

Putin also declared that Russian forces were close to “finishing off” Ukrainian troops—raising concerns about Russia’s intentions going forward.

A Long Road to Peace

Despite diplomatic efforts, both sides remain far apart. The timeline for ending the war remains uncertain, and progress will likely be slow.