US mediation efforts is important for Russia: Kremlin

The Kremlin said on Monday that it sees value in U.S. special envoy Keith Kellogg continuing his mediation efforts between Russia and Ukraine during his current visit to Kyiv.

“It’s very important for us that Mr. Kellogg, as a member of President Trump’s team, continues working to mediate the Russia-Ukraine conflict,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in a press briefing.

However, Peskov added that Russia does not expect much to come out of Kellogg’s visit. Still, he reaffirmed Moscow’s readiness for a third round of direct negotiations with Ukraine, following earlier talks in May and June held in Istanbul.

“It’s clear Kyiv isn’t in a hurry. We’re still waiting for them to propose dates,” Peskov added.

Reaction to U.S. Patriot Missiles
Peskov also responded to former President Donald Trump’s recent announcement that the U.S. will send Patriot air defense missiles to Ukraine. He said Russia assumes U.S. military support for Ukraine is ongoing and will continue.

Kellogg arrived in Kyiv earlier Monday for a week-long visit, where he was welcomed by Andriy Yermak, head of Ukraine’s Presidential Office.
Yermak said the two sides have many issues to discuss, including security, weapons, sanctions, and strengthening Ukraine-U.S. cooperation.

Baltic Region Tensions
Peskov also spoke about rising tensions in the Baltic region, blaming European coastal countries for what he called aggressive and provocative behavior.

“The Baltic is now a tense region, thanks to the aggressive actions of European countries,” he said.

He emphasized that Russia is also a Baltic state, and vowed that Moscow would firmly defend its interests in the area.