Russia’s Foreign Ministry reiterated that a genuine “reset” with Europe requires newly elected leaders who are prepared to abandon the current anti‑Russian course, remove economic sanctions, and stop supplying military aid to Kyiv.
Maria Zakharova, the ministry’s spokesperson, emphasized that any renewal of relations must rest on principles of sovereign equality, non‑interference, and mutual benefit—rejecting current Western approaches rooted in ultimatums.
According to Russian Gazeta, “A real reset can only happen when fresh leadership emerges—leaders focused on their people’s interests, ready to reverse the anti‑Russian momentum, lift sanctions, and halt weapons shipments to Kyiv,” Zakharova said.
She reinforced the message by echoing Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu, who recently accused certain European capitals of deliberately prolonging the conflict in Ukraine, while also hindering normalization between Moscow and Washington.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reaffirmed that Istanbul remains the exclusive venue for future Russia–Ukraine peace negotiations, leaving no room for speculation about moving the talks elsewhere. “So far, there has been no talk of choosing any other venue,” Peskov said according to TASS, underscoring Moscow’s unwavering strategic choice. By anchoring discussions in Istanbul—mediated by Turkey—Russia strengthens ties with a key regional partner while ensuring the dialogue stays within a framework it controls.
This firm stance signals Russia’s insistence on preserving the Istanbul process against Western pressure. In emphasizing the venue’s significance, Peskov sent a clear message: peace talks guided by Moscow and Ankara are preferable to any EU‑ or NATO‑led scenario. The decision reflects a broader Kremlin strategy to shape the diplomatic environment on its own terms, not under Brussels or Washington’s influence, according to Reuters.
This declaration underscores Turkey’s strategic role, as Moscow continues to use Istanbul as a reliable channel for dialogue with Kyiv.
European and Global Reactions to Russia’s Reset Call
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stressed the importance of maintaining pressure on Russia, reiterating support for a new round of sanctions to compel Moscow to come to the negotiating table. She emphasized that EU unity is essential, particularly in light of inflamed tensions in the Middle East, according to The Guardian.
At the G7 meeting in Canada, leaders reaffirmed their opposition to Russia’s overtures. US President Donald Trump expressed reservations, suggesting that removing Russia from the group was a mistake—raising concerns about the US commitment to Western sanctions, according to Reuters.
Economic Pressures and Sanctions Impact
The 18th sanctions package proposed by the European Commission seeks to further isolate Russia’s oil, banking, and energy sectors. Meanwhile, Germany’s imports from Russia have fallen by 95% since the war began, signaling deep economic decoupling despite continued Russian energy exports, according to Reuters.
According to Financial Times have argued that sanctions are beginning to strain Russia’s economy non-militarily—highlighting weaker industrial output, labor shortages, and impending budget deficits.
Moscow positions itself as Middle Eastern mediator
Russia condemned Israeli airstrikes on Iran as a violation of the UN Charter, signaling its intent to play mediator in the deepening Israeli–Iran conflict. Moscow also floated a plan to domestically store enriched Iranian uranium as part of a diplomatic solution—an offer criticized in the West, but praised by Moscow as evidence of its constructive role.
This move aligns with Kremlin strategist views that such diplomacy enhances Russia’s global prestige while benefiting economically, as soaring oil prices improve Moscow’s fiscal capacities.
Domestic European Strains
Austria’s right-wing Freedom Party (FPÖ), along with similar voices in Hungary and Slovakia, condemned Ukrainian President Zelensky’s recent visit to Vienna as a provocation undermining neutrality.
According to Euractive, That “In any case, we will not contribute to this attack on Austrian neutrality,” FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl told a press conference on Tuesday. Kickl also announced his party’s plan to protest without going further into detail. The far-right party previously opposed a proposed address from Zelenskyy a year ago. As a neutral country, Austria would give the “president of a warring nation” a forum, he added. “You could also say he is spreading Ukrainian, or NATO, or American propaganda there,” he said.
Germany’s intelligence chief has warned that Russia may test NATO’s unity with hybrid tactics—demonstrating Moscow’s continued strategic confrontation with the West, according to Reuters.
Strategic Russian Objectives
Shifting political winds in Europe: Moscow is betting on upcoming EU elections, hoping pragmatist or Euroskeptic parties may soften relations.
Diplomatic flexibility: By controlling the venue and framing the narrative, Russia retains leverage while appearing open to talks.
Economic gains: Price volatility in Middle Eastern crises boosts Moscow’s budgets, supporting its longer-term war efforts.
Global relevance: Mediation in Middle Eastern affairs boosts Russia’s image as a global power broker.
