Russian side: Preparing for trilateral talks does not mean Russia "commits to limiting military actions"

According to a report by the Russian News Agency on October 30, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated to Russian media that preparations for the trilateral talks between Russia, the United States, and Ukraine are still underway, but the preparatory talks do not mean that Russia is "committed to limiting military operations."

Peskov said that Russia has consistently opposed a ceasefire that would give Ukraine a "breathing space." He indicated that Russia is taking countermeasures against Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil refineries but will not raise this issue during the talks. "The goal of Russia's special military operation is to deprive Ukraine of the ability to launch attacks."

On the same day, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Novak stated that Ukraine had attacked three Russian oil refineries and a gas chemical complex, and that Russia's air defense systems were generally effective, with one refinery sustaining minor damage. On the same day, Russian presidential aide Ushakov said that U.S. President Trump was firm in his request for the Ukrainian military to stop attacking Russian oil refineries, but Ukraine did not comply.

Previously, Russian President Putin confirmed during a meeting with U.S. presidential envoy Whitaker that Russia is prepared to resume trilateral talks with the U.S. and Ukraine. Ushakov stated on the 30th that Russia plans to hold talks with Ukraine under U.S. mediation, which may take place in mid-November in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Peskov also indicated that European parties might participate at some stage of the trilateral talks.