MOSCOW – Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov expressed skepticism on Friday about the likelihood of peace talks with Ukraine or the West, citing a lack of tangible actions to support their calls for negotiations. According to a transcript published by Russia’s Foreign Ministry, Lavrov highlighted ongoing Western military aid to Ukraine, ultimatums directed at Moscow, and Ukraine’s legal prohibition on negotiations as barriers to dialogue.
“Despite the increasingly loud talk about the need for peace talks, there are objectively no practical actions indicating readiness from Kyiv and the West,” Lavrov said.
Russian President Vladimir Putin previously stated in December that Moscow was open to talks with Ukraine, even with President Volodymyr Zelensky, provided he was re-elected and deemed a legitimate signatory. Kyiv, however, has dismissed questions about Zelensky’s legitimacy, accusing Moscow of attempting to undermine his authority.
The impasse reflects the broader tensions as military support for Ukraine from Western allies continues, and both sides remain entrenched in their positions regarding the ongoing conflict.