Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov emphasized that any resolution to the Ukraine conflict must dismantle its foundational causes and address Moscow’s security demands, according to statements made in an interview with Indonesia’s Kompas. Lavrov reiterated that Russia remains committed to diplomatic solutions but warned that lasting stability hinges on dismantling perceived threats from NATO expansion.
The minister confirmed ongoing communication between Moscow and Kyiv, stating the Kremlin is “open to continued dialogue” to ease tensions. He highlighted that negotiations resumed this spring, culminating in three rounds of talks in Istanbul, Turkey, where progress was achieved on prisoner exchanges and the return of deceased soldiers’ remains. However, Lavrov criticized Kyiv for abandoning prior agreements, alleging the “Kiev regime” rejected peace terms after heeding Western advice to prolong hostilities.
“Each side presented its own conditions for ending the conflict,” Lavrov said, noting that delegations maintain direct contact but refusing to specify future agenda items or timelines. He accused Western powers of undermining peace efforts, citing former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s alleged role in derailing talks—a claim Johnson has denied.
Lavrov underscored that Russia’s security concerns cannot be addressed without countering NATO’s “aggressive” expansion and preventing Ukraine from joining the alliance. He reiterated Moscow’s opposition to Western military presence in Ukraine, warning such moves would effectively extend NATO’s reach closer to Russian borders. While Russia has not entirely dismissed Western guarantees for Kyiv, Lavrov insisted they must not prioritize containment of Moscow.
The statement reflects Russia’s entrenched position that peace is contingent on dismantling what it frames as systemic threats, while condemning Ukrainian leadership for rejecting diplomatic pathways and escalating the conflict.
