Putin Awaits Prior Agreement Before Meeting Zelensky, Says Lavrov

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that President Vladimir Putin is ready to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, but only after all critical issues concerning the resolution of the Moscow-Kyiv conflict are fully resolved. During an interview, Lavrov explained that Putin has consistently signaled his willingness to meet with Zelensky, contingent on a prior understanding that all pertinent matters have been thoroughly examined by specialists and officials. This follows discussions involving the two leaders, with former US President Donald Trump proposing a one-on-one meeting between Putin and Zelensky before a potential trilateral summit. Lavrov suggested that Zelensky is seeking a swift meeting to maintain international interest, highlighting that Zelensky previously rejected any talks with Putin and even signed a decree in 2022 forbidding such negotiations, a decree that is still in effect. Lavrov viewed Zelensky’s initiative as a ploy to create a facade of constructive engagement, in contrast to the real, difficult work required to establish a sustainable solution to the crisis.