Russia says diplomatic path to end Ukraine war remains possible

Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told the 12th Primakov Readings in Moscow that Russia is prepared to resume negotiations on the Ukraine conflict if “smart people” present concrete, legally binding security guarantees. He warned that the West repeatedly ignores Russian red lines, likening its actions to constantly passing the ball “off‑side”. Lavrov cited the 2025 Anchorage meeting between President Vladimir Putin and former U.S. President Donald Trump as a basis for ongoing diplomatic understandings, and said Russia will not accept any ultimatums or temporary fixes.

Lavrov also accused the United States of supporting Ukraine’s “terrorist” actions and criticized European expansion plans, insisting that Western sanctions and pressure must end. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov echoed the call for a continued U.S.–Ukraine dialogue, condemned the United Kingdom’s seizure of a Russian‑linked tanker as piracy, and said Russia is ready to mediate between the United States and Iran. Other forum participants, including Russian officials, denounced what they described as Europe’s effort to prolong the war.

Overall, Moscow reiterated its demand for security guarantees for its western borders and for the protection of Russian‑speaking populations in Ukraine, while signaling willingness to negotiate under conditions it deems fair.