Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has indicated that Moscow is taking a firm stance ahead of talks to end the war in Ukraine. The upcoming discussions between Russian and US officials, set to commence in Riyadh, have been framed by the Trump administration as requiring difficult compromises from both Russia and Ukraine to achieve a negotiated peace.
When questioned by CNN about Russia's willingness to make concessions, Lavrov's response suggested a tough approach to negotiations. Lavrov's comments during a news conference in Moscow included historical inaccuracies, such as claiming that territories in present-day Ukraine were developed by Russian people over centuries. This sentiment mirrors President Vladimir Putin's previous assertions that Russians and Ukrainians are a unified entity.
While acknowledging Ukrainian contributions to defeating Nazi Germany in World War II, Lavrov reiterated the Kremlin's unfounded allegations of Nazi influence in Ukraine. Moscow has used these claims to justify its invasion, citing the need to 'denazify' Ukraine.
Lavrov also touched on Ukraine's occupation of parts of Russia's Kursk region, following an unexpected incursion last year. He questioned the necessity of territorial concessions, citing concerns about the safety of Russians in those areas.
