Russia‘s Lavrov: Open to War | Latest News & Updates| BBC News”>Ukraine and Russia at War News | Top Headlines on the conflict …”>Ukraine War Talks, but Seeks ‘Reliable’ Agreement
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has reiterated his country’s willingness to engage in talks to end the conflict in Ukraine, but insists that any future agreement between the warring parties must be "unshakeable." In an interview with the Tass news agency, Lavrov stated, "Russia has always been and remains ready for negotiations," but emphasized that any discussions must lead to "reliable, legally binding arrangements that would eliminate the root causes of the conflict."
The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs underscored that any agreement should establish a mechanism to prevent violations. Lavrov noted that negotiations should be conducted with a clear understanding of "who and what to discuss." He added that discussions should focus on substantive issues, not mere formalities.
Meanwhile, Russia has expressed dissatisfaction with the proposals put forth by the incoming administration of U.S. President Donald Trump. These proposals include delaying Ukraine’s NATO membership for 20 years and introducing a European Union and British peacekeeping contingent into the country. Lavrov stated, "We cannot accept proposals to postpone Ukraine’s entry into NATO for 20 years and to deploy a peacekeeping contingent of British and European forces in Ukraine."
Lavrov also mentioned that Moscow has not received any official signals from the current U.S. administration under President Joe Biden regarding a resolution to the war. Previously, on December 26, Lavrov dismissed the idea of a ceasefire with Ukraine, stating that it would be a "dead end" without reliable guarantees.
The focus now shifts to whether these conditions can be met and if both sides are willing to engage in meaningful dialogue to bring an end to the ongoing conflict.
