MOSCOW, Aug 21 (Reuters) - Russia is open to listening to new proposals on how to reach a settlement on the Ukraine conflict, a senior Russian diplomat said on Friday, but any proposals should reflect the "realities on the ground".

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said in an interview with media outlet News.ru published on Friday, the United States demonstrated a readiness for "constructive dialogue" and an "understanding of Russia's position".

"At this stage, it is more important to what extent Washington is able to influence the decisions of the Kyiv regime and its European sponsors, who still dream of a 'strategic defeat' of Russia," he told the outlet.