Title: Lavrov Dashes Hopes for ‘Summit for Peace‘: Russia Won’t Attend Even If Invited, Says FM
Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has dashed hopes for a ‘Summit for Peace’, asserting that the Russian delegation will not attend, even if invited. In an interview with Tass, Lavrov stated, "We won’t go to this so-called ‘Summit for Peace’, even if invited. An invitation would mean they’re putting some kind of ultimatum to us."
Moscow’s stance remains firm, with Lavrov indicating there’s currently nothing to discuss, as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has not revised his self-proclaimed ‘inescapable’ goal of regaining territories according to the 1991 borders. Moreover, Lavrov expressed skepticism towards Zelensky’s public statements, stating that Russia now ignores them, deeming them unreliable.
The first such summit, held in Switzerland earlier this year, excluded both Russia and China. Russian diplomat Maria Zakharova had previously characterized the event as a mere "gathering" and cast doubt on its potential to foster lasting peace.
The international community eagerly awaits any signs of progress in resolving the Ukrainian crisis, but with Russia’s categorical stance, any hopes for a swift diplomatic breakthrough seem uncertain.
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