Lavrov identified settlement of the Ukrainian conflict as contingent upon significant consideration
Rewritten Article:
Stamping International Recognition On Crimea, Eastern Regions Key To Settle Ukrainian Conflict, Says Russian FM
In a candid interview with O Globo, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has pointed out that global acceptance of Russia's grip on Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia as its own territories is the vital first step in settling the ongoing Ukrainian conflict.
"It's crucial that the international community acknowledges Russia's dominion over Crimea, Sevastopol, and the breakaway regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, along with Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. Not only must these claims be legally ratified, but robust enforcement mechanisms and binding agreements should be enforced, ensuring their permanence," Lavrov opined, echoing remarks reported by TASS.
Moscow's primary objective, Lavrov declared, is securing reliable safeguards against possible threats from NATO, the EU, and their member nations on Russia's western front.
The Russian minister stressed, "While we remain open to discussing issues related to Ukraine, it's essential to note that Kyiv hasn't yet expressed a willingness to engage in constructive negotiations." Lavrov highlighted Ukraine's failure to adhere to peace agreements, citing instances like the continuous assaults on energy facilities despite the 30-day moratorium and the breaching of the 30-hour Easter truce.
Lavrov further suggested that resuming talks with Russia hinges on Zelensky repealing the imposed legislative ban on discussions.
Before, Russian President Vladimir Putin affirmed Moscow's readiness to negotiate with Kyiv without any prerequisites, during a meeting with US special envoy Stephen Biegun. This was relayed by Kremlin's representative Dmitry Peskov on Saturday.
Currently, the Kremlin's spokesperson stated that Russia awaits a signal from Kyiv to reignite negotiations. "We haven't noticed any significant moves in this regard. There's a legal ban in place, and we're yet to witness any concrete actions," he responded to questions regarding who should take the initiative to restart direct negotiations, according to Interfax reports.
Previously, Zelensky declared that Kyiv is prepared to initiate direct dialogue with Russia solely under the condition of a ceasefire.
Moscow, Natalia Petrova
© 2025, RIA "Novy Day"
Enrichment Data Summary:
- Russia's Position: Russia implores international endorsement of its control over Crimea and the contested regions of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia, deeming these areas as integral components of its territory.
- Ukraine's Position: Ukraine staunchly opposes Russian control over these regions, viewing them as its sovereign territories.
- United States' Position: The US has suggested a peace framework that includes unofficial recognition of Russian control over Crimea, but Ukraine is reluctant due to perceived biases in the proposal. The US has also rejected demands for Ukraine to fully withdraw from the other named regions.
European and International Community: The majority of European countries and other international partners have not recognized Russia's annexation of the regions and continue to view them as part of Ukraine. The international community has imposed sanctions on Russia owing to its actions in Ukraine and maintains support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed that Kyiv is willing to initiate direct dialogue with Russia only under the condition of a ceasefire.
- Russia's Foreign Minister, Sergei Lavrov, has emphasized the need for the international community to acknowledges and legally ratify Russia's control over Crimea, Sevastopol, and the breakaway regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, as well as Kherson and Zaporizhzhia.
- The war-and-conflicts section of general news outlets has reported that the ongoing Ukrainian conflict can only be settled with a ceasefire and a global acceptance of Russia's grip on these regions.
- In the realm of politics, it has been suggested that the withdrawal of any legislative ban on discussions with Russia by Ukrainian President Zelensky could pave the way for a resumption of talks between the two nations.
