Russian FM Lavrov Talks Ukraine, NATO, Europe at Conference in Moscow

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov confirmed Friday that preparations are underway for a second round of direct talks between Russia and Ukraine

He stated that Russia’s draft memorandum of peace is at an “advanced stage” and will be presented to Ukraine in the upcoming round, regardless of further developments on the ground. Speaking at a diplomatic conference in Moscow, Lavrov welcomed Ukraine’s confirmation of participation in the next meeting, calling it a “positive development” in a conflict that has dragged on for over three years.

“We are finalizing the draft of our peace memorandum,” Lavrov said. “Our objective remains the same — to secure long-term guarantees for Russian-speaking populations and address the systemic issues fueling this conflict.”