Kremlin: Fewer weapons for Ukraine brings conflict closer to end

Reduction or cessation of Western arms supplies to Ukraine brings conflict with Russia closer to its end, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday.

Speaking at a press briefing in Moscow, Peskov attributed lower supplies to lack of weapons among supplier countries themselves.

"To our understanding, the reason behind this decision was empty warehouses and shortages of these weapons in storage facilities. But regardless, the less weapons are supplied to Ukraine, the closer the end comes to the 'special military operation,'" he said.

According to American media reports, the US Defense Department suspended missile deliveries for air defense systems and precision-guided munitions to Ukraine due to stockpile shortages and will be unable to resume supplies for several months.

Asked about Tuesday's talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron, Peskov said it took place on initiative of the French side.

Peskov clarified that during the call, neither Putin nor Macron discussed arranging a face-to-face summit, noting that the current telephone format suffices for exchanging views.

On a question if Macron expressed openness to negotiating peace terms in Ukraine reflecting recent developments on the ground, Peskov replied negatively.

“No, he didn’t send signals. Opinions were exchanged but rather thoroughly. It was a good opportunity to convey each other's positions,” he said.

Asked if Germany or the UK requested direct communication with Putin, Peskov said the Kremlin did not get such requests.