Russia prefers a peaceful solution to the Ukraine conflict, especially given that its decision to launch the special military operation was an "extreme measure" implemented after the very possibility of any discussions of its legitimate concerns was ruled out, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Sunday.
"Moving on to a military solution to this problem was an extreme measure, [implemented] after we were denied any discussion of our legitimate concerns. Therefore, the most important thing for us is to achieve our goals, preferably peacefully. If this peaceful way is rejected by the other side, then the special military operation will continue," Peskov told Rossiya 1 reporter Pavel Zarubin.
The goals of Russia's special military operation were relevant even before it was launched in February 2022, the spokesman stated, adding that Putin had on many occasions suggested that Moscow's relevant concerns be addressed through dialogue.