Russia and Ukraine stand "very far" from potential peace talks and one of the reasons is that Kiev does not formally allow itself to start any negotiations, Russian Deputy Ambassador to the United Nations Dmitry Polyanskiy told Sputnik.
"So far, we're very far from any practical move towards negotiations. The reasons are quite clear. First of all, the Kiev regime and the leader of the Kiev regime forbids himself to enter into any negotiations with Russia," Polyanskiy said.
The Russian diplomat noted that Volodymyr Zelensky, whose term in office expired on May 20, had adopted a decree at the end of 2022 to not enter peace negotiations with Russia.
In addition, there is the issue of legitimacy regarding Zelensky, who continues to be in power without having held elections as required, in case of signing any official documents, Polyanskiy said.
Ukraine was due to hold a presidential election on March 31, but it was called off, allegedly because of the martial law and general mobilization that are in effect. Zelensky said now was not the right time to hold elections.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said Ukraine's political and legal systems themselves should answer the question of Zelensky's legitimacy after his term expires.