The Kremlin responded on Monday to the latest remarks by U.S. President Trump, saying that although Trump criticized Russian President Putin, the two countries continue to cooperate, especially in seeking a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine issue and restoring bilateral relations.
On Sunday, Trump stated that he was "angered" by Putin's criticism of Ukrainian President Zelensky and threatened to impose a secondary tariff of 25% to 50% on Russian oil buyers if both sides fail to reach a ceasefire agreement and if he believes Russia is responsible for the failure. This remark is unusual in Trump's push for Russia-Ukraine peace talks, reflecting his growing frustration with the slow progress in negotiations.
Since taking office in January, the Trump administration has been attempting to improve U.S.-Russian relations and push for an end to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, though this process has been challenging. While Russia and Ukraine have expressed willingness to implement a partial ceasefire on energy facilities and Black Sea shipping, Russia has rejected the U.S. proposal for a comprehensive ceasefire, indicating disagreements remain between the two countries.
In response, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia continues to work with the United States and that Putin remains open to engaging with Trump. He added that the two sides are in consultations on a possible peaceful resolution to the Ukraine issue, but due to the complexity of the work, this task is ongoing, and no specific details can yet be disclosed.
Additionally, Peskov noted that U.S.-Russia relations had reached a low point during former President Biden's administration, but with the easing of tensions, both sides have begun discussions on economic cooperation. Putin's investment envoy, Kirill Dmitriev, head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund, revealed that the U.S. and Russia have already initiated negotiations on joint ventures in rare earth projects, with some companies showing interest.
He also mentioned the next round of U.S.-Russia summit talks might take place in mid-April in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where further discussions on economic cooperation and the Ukraine peace process are expected.
