Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia expects the dialogue with the United States on resolving the Ukraine crisis to continue, while accusing the United Kingdom of piracy over its seizure of a tanker carrying Russian oil.
Speaking at a press briefing today, Peskov commented on several international issues.
Addressing reports that U.S. President Donald Trump had allegedly granted Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky permission to carry out strikes deep inside Russian territory, Peskov stressed that Ukrainian media could not be trusted and stated:
“We expect dialogue with American negotiators to continue in the context of resolving the Ukraine crisis.”
Accusation of ‘Piracy’ Against the UK
The Kremlin spokesman also reacted strongly to the UK’s plans regarding the oil tanker Smyrtos, which was seized in the English Channel, and its cargo.
Asked about a report by The Telegraph claiming that London intends to sell the 100,000 tons of oil aboard the tanker and transfer the proceeds to Ukraine, Peskov said:
“This appears to be an attempt to nationalize (confiscate) and sell spoils obtained through what can only be described as piracy.”
The United Kingdom stopped the Cameroon-flagged tanker on June 14, alleging that it was linked to Russia. Russia’s Embassy in London later stated that no Russian citizens were on board the vessel.
Message of Support for Venezuela Following Earthquake
Peskov also commented on developments in Latin America. Responding to a question about the earthquake in Venezuela, he said that Moscow had not yet received an official request for assistance from the authorities in Caracas. However, he added that if such a request were made, Russia would review it immediately and respond promptly.