Russia does not want to end the war in Ukraine

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated on Friday that he sees no evidence that Russia wants to end the war in Ukraine and is rather moving in the opposite direction.

"Putin is far from willing to engage in diplomacy. Washington will consider all ways to engage in diplomatic talks with Russia if there is an opportunity to do so," he said.  

Earlier on Friday, Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin spoke by telephone with Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoygu. He stressed after these consultations that channels of communication with Russia must remain open. 

(PAP)