Kathmandu— Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov indicated Friday that Moscow is prepared to entertain fresh ideas for ending the war in Ukraine, but only if those proposals are consistent with President Vladimir Putin’s objectives and reflect the current battlefield situation. Ryabkov suggested Russia is particularly keen for the United States – which he claims has previously demonstrated support for Russia's agenda – to re-engage in negotiations, as ongoing fighting intensifies and concerns grow about potential regional escalation. Previous US-brokered talks earlier this year failed to yield a settlement, and were further derailed by Washington’s involvement in conflict elsewhere.

Seeking Renewed US Involvement

Ryabkov's comments suggest Moscow is hoping for a return to the diplomatic efforts seen earlier this year, which included negotiations led by US special envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff. While the Kremlin stated it has no new information regarding a potential visit from the duo, Ryabkov emphasized the importance of Washington’s influence over Kyiv and its European allies. “At this stage, it is more important to what extent Washington is able to influence the decisions of the Kyiv regime and its European sponsors,” he said, adding that some continue to pursue a “strategic defeat” of Russia.

Putin's Demands Remain Firm

Underpinning any potential negotiations are President Putin’s previously stated demands for a ceasefire. These include Ukraine ceding control of the entire eastern Donbas region, demilitarization, and a legally binding commitment not to seek membership in NATO. A 28-point peace plan circulated by Washington last November reportedly included concessions to Russian demands, but drew criticism as a result. Despite these earlier efforts, several rounds of negotiations failed to reach a resolution before being cancelled following the escalation of conflict involving the US.

Escalating Hostilities on Multiple Fronts

While diplomatic avenues remain theoretically open, fighting continues to escalate across Ukraine and within Russia itself. Recent attacks have resulted in numerous casualties, with both sides targeting critical infrastructure. In eastern Ukraine’s Kharkiv region, Russian strikes killed two women and ignited fires at residential buildings. Further south, in the Zaporizhia region, one person was killed and another injured in an attack on a home. Meanwhile, Ukrainian drone attacks have damaged industrial facilities within Russia, including an oil refinery in the Perm region and a military air base in Volgograd.

Regional Concerns Grow

The ongoing conflict is also raising concerns among neighboring nations. A Russian drone attack damaged a border crossing with Moldova in Ukraine’s Odesa region, while Finland reported a suspected violation of its airspace by a Russian reconnaissance plane. Ukrainian authorities report that Russian attacks have damaged or destroyed over 300 fuel stations in the past six months, causing “significant losses for our economy.” Energy infrastructure has become a key target for both sides.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated Thursday he is ‘preparing decisions within the diplomatic team’ and emphasized Ukraine's need for results from any renewed negotiations. The situation remains fluid as fighting continues alongside ongoing diplomatic maneuvering.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.