MOSCOW, (TDI): Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov claimed on Thursday that France had attempted to initiate a “dialogue” with Moscow on the Ukraine conflict without involving Kyiv — a statement dismissed by Paris as “intemperate.”
“On several occasions, our French colleagues have approached us through confidential channels, suggesting dialogue on the Ukrainian issue — without Ukraine,” Lavrov said during a live interview with Russian and international media. He added that Russian officials were “ready to listen.”
In response, a French diplomatic source told AFP, “The Russian authorities are accustomed to making intemperate remarks aimed at exploiting a war of aggression for which they bear full responsibility.”
The source reiterated that France maintains its position that “it is up to Ukraine, the aggressed country, to define the time and conditions under which they wish to enter into a negotiation process.”
Peace Talks and Ceasefire Prospects
As the war nears its third anniversary, discussions about potential peace talks are gaining attention, especially with US President-elect Donald Trump set to take office next month. Trump has expressed a desire to end the conflict but has not provided details on his approach.
France has suggested deploying Western troops to Ukraine to oversee a potential ceasefire, though Lavrov dismissed such efforts as ineffective and counterproductive.
Also Read: Russian Court Sentences US Citizen to 15 Years for Espionage
“A ceasefire at this stage is a dead-end,” Lavrov told Russia’s TASS news agency. He argued that a temporary halt in fighting would only allow Ukraine to regroup, mobilize, and receive more weapons from Western allies.
“What we need are final, legally binding agreements that address the conditions for ensuring Russia’s security and the legitimate interests of our neighbors, in line with international law,” Lavrov said. He emphasized that these agreements must address the root causes of the conflict.
Also Read: West Escalates Ukraine Conflict: Russia
Lavrov accused NATO of breaking promises not to expand eastward, claiming the alliance’s aggressive policies were designed to encroach on Russia’s borders. “Ukraine was being prepared for the same fate, and this remains their agenda,” he added.
Strengthening BRICS Cooperation
Lavrov also highlighted the importance of strengthening information cooperation among BRICS nations to bolster their position and influence in global structures, according to TV BRICS.
He praised the partnership between Russia and China as a consolidating force for the Global South, calling their collaboration within BRICS an example of their positive impact on international relations.
