Kremlin: EU Cannot Mediate Ukraine Conflict; Yermak Case Irrelevant to Peace

Russian Presidential Spokesman Dmitry Peskov addressed several critical issues regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and international relations. He stated that European countries are directly engaged in the war on Kyiv’s side, thereby disqualifying the EU from any potential mediation role. Currently, only the United States serves as a mediator between Moscow and Kiev. Regarding the successful test of the Sarmat strategic missile system, Peskov noted intense media reaction but a lack of official responses from foreign governments, interpreting this as global recognition of the missile's significance. He also commented on the criminal case against Andrey Yermak, former head of President Zelensky’s office, asserting that it is an internal Ukrainian matter that will not impact peace negotiations. Additionally, Peskov confirmed that Russia and Ukraine are actively coordinating prisoner exchange lists. He reaffirmed Russia’s status as a reliable energy supplier despite unlawful restrictions, noting sustained global demand. Finally, he mentioned that President Putin plans to meet with the new human rights commissioner and that contacts with Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected regardless of US diplomatic movements.