Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated on Thursday that Moscow has no deadlines for ending the war in Ukraine, emphasizing that Russia is focused on achieving its objectives rather than adhering to timelines imposed externally.

Speaking to state media amid ongoing diplomatic efforts involving the United States and Ukraine, Lavrov dismissed speculation about imminent peace deals, saying, “Have you heard anything from us about deadlines? We have no deadlines, we have tasks. We are getting them done.” The remarks came as several rounds of discussions have failed to produce an agreement, with Moscow maintaining firm demands on territorial and political issues that Kyiv has rejected as equivalent to capitulation.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reinforced this position, cautioning against premature forecasts on the progress of talks. He noted that it would be a mistake to define stages or timelines at this point, and reiterated that Russia would only participate in a summit to sign a finalized deal negotiated by working teams. This stance aligns with Russia's long-held view that any resolution must address its security concerns and recognize territorial realities on the ground.

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The comments coincide with heightened diplomatic activity, including upcoming US-Ukraine talks in Geneva aimed at advancing peace efforts. Recent exchanges, such as the repatriation of soldiers' bodies between Russia and Ukraine, represent limited humanitarian cooperation, but broader negotiations remain stalled over core issues like control of occupied regions in eastern Ukraine and postwar security guarantees.

As the conflict enters its fifth year since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, Russian officials have consistently pushed back against external pressure for quick resolutions, including reported deadlines from other parties. Lavrov's statement underscores Moscow's strategy of pursuing its goals through sustained military and diplomatic pressure, while rejecting rushed compromises that do not meet its conditions. Authorities in Kyiv have described such positions as obstacles to genuine peace, highlighting the challenges in bridging the deep divides between the two sides.

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