Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov again refused to give a definitive answer to Russian journalists' questions about an alleged phone call between US President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin, the BBC reports.
Speculation about contact between the two leaders intensified after the American tabloid New York Post published an exclusive report claiming that Trump had spoken to Putin.
Asked by journalists on board the presidential plane whether he had indeed had such a conversation, Trump replied evasively: "Let's say I did... And I expect many more conversations in the future. We must end this war," he said, referring to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Despite pressure from the media, the Kremlin spokesman stood his ground, refusing to confirm or deny the information: "I made a statement on this issue yesterday. And I can't tell you anything else. I can neither confirm nor deny this," Peskov said.
Trump's words and the lack of a clear response from Moscow are fueling speculation about a possible secret diplomatic channel between Washington and the Kremlin in an attempt to find a solution to the conflict in Ukraine.
Moscow has not yet received a good offer to start negotiations with Ukraine. This was stated on February 9 by Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin.
In an interview with RIA, Galuzin pointed out that it was important to back up the words with "practical steps that take into account Russia's legitimate interests, demonstrating readiness to eradicate the root causes of the crisis and recognize new realities". Specific proposals of this nature have not yet been received, he stressed.
Galuzin emphasized that Moscow remains open to dialogue on the war in Ukraine, but stands by its demand that Ukraine not join NATO and that Russians there retain their rights.