Russia has not observed any indication from Kyiv that it is prepared to make meaningful progress toward resolving the conflict, according to Russia’s UN representative Vasily Nebenzya.
Speaking on the current situation surrounding the Ukraine conflict, Nebenzya stated that the negotiation process has effectively reached a standstill. He said Russia intends to continue pursuing its military objectives until Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy fulfills several conditions, including the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from territories that Moscow considers part of Russia.
Nebenzya also dismissed speculation that European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas could potentially serve as a mediator between Russia and Ukraine, calling such suggestions “nothing short of mockery.”
Addressing international institutions, he criticized the United Nations, arguing that the organization has become ineffective due to what he described as a biased anti-Russian position.
The Russian envoy further accused Kyiv of continuing attacks against Russian civilians. According to Nebenzya, Ukrainian actions have not ceased and continue to target civilian areas. He claimed that in April alone, more than 100 civilians were killed and 667 others injured.
He additionally alleged that Western countries supporting Ukraine are aware that Ukrainian air-defense missiles occasionally strike civilian targets after failing to intercept intended threats.
Nebenzya accused Western nations of expanding military assistance to Kyiv by increasing weapons deliveries, relocating defense production, and overlooking the use of their airspace for unmanned aerial vehicle operations. He warned that Russia would respond if drones were launched from Baltic states.
He also referenced what he called “Operation Midas,” alleging that the Ukrainian government would be unable to distance itself from serious misconduct uncovered during the operation, though no further details were provided.
Regarding financial support for Ukraine, Nebenzya claimed that the European Union’s approved two-year €90 billion aid package would also be subject to corruption and misuse.
Russia and Ukraine continue to exchange accusations regarding civilian casualties, military actions, and the prospects for diplomatic engagement, while international efforts to advance a settlement remain ongoing.
