Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov says battlefield, not talks, decides Ukraine peace; Russian language rights essential

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov argued that any settlement of the war in Ukraine will be determined by the outcome on the front lines rather than by diplomatic negotiations. He dismissed the possibility of talks with Kyiv, saying the conflict’s resolution depends on the actions of Russian forces.

Lavrov also stated that the full restoration of rights for Russian‑speaking populations in Ukraine is a non‑negotiable condition for a lasting peace. He accused Ukraine of systematic discrimination against Russian speakers and described the protection of these language rights as an "absolute priority" for Moscow.

The statements were made in a video address marking Russian Language Day and echo earlier remarks rejecting a direct summit between President Vladimir Putin and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.