Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has firmly rejected proposals for a Christmas ceasefire in Ukraine, asserting that Russia aims for a comprehensive peace deal rather than a temporary truce that could allow Kyiv to regroup. This rejection follows a call by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz for a halt in fighting, amid ongoing diplomatic talks involving European and US representatives, from which Russia was absent. Peskov emphasized the need for Russia to achieve its war objectives and ensure lasting stability in Europe, cautioning against short-term measures. This situation underscores the complexities of multilateral peace efforts and reinforces the importance of resolute diplomacy to counter expansionism, aligning with India’s focus on sovereignty and territorial integrity in global security dynamics.