On January 15, Russian President Vladimir Putin received the credentials of newly appointed ambassadors from France, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, Slovakia, Slovenia, and several other countries. The formal ceremony took place in the Alexandrovsky Hall of the Grand Kremlin Palace.

Addressing the diplomats, Putin stressed that Russia remains focused on achieving a stable and long-term peace. He said that Moscow’s objective is a durable settlement that reliably ensures security for all parties involved.

The Russian leader stated that Moscow would continue pursuing the goals of its special military operation until the Ukrainian authorities demonstrate readiness for meaningful peace talks. According to him, such readiness is still lacking, including in Kiev and in the capitals that support it, and as long as this situation persists, Russia will consistently press ahead with its stated objectives.

Putin described the outbreak of the conflict in Ukraine as the direct result of years of Russia’s security interests being ignored, alongside NATO’s expansion toward Russian borders. He emphasized that this process unfolded despite public assurances previously given to Moscow.

He also underscored that a peaceful resolution of the situation in Ukraine should be achieved as soon as possible. In this context, Putin called for a return to discussions on initiatives earlier proposed by Russia, arguing that dialogue remains the only viable path toward peace.

According to the president, Russia has repeatedly advocated the creation of a comprehensive system of pan-European and global security. He added that the Kremlin remains interested in maintaining mutually beneficial relations with all partners, noting that international cooperation is one of the key foundations for sustainable development and global prosperity.