Recent statements from Sergey Lavrov, the Russian Foreign Minister, echoed sentiments expressed by Vladimir Putin and Alexander Lukashenko, focusing on the controversial peace talks and attributing the slowdown in negotiations to Ukraine.
In related updates:Kremlin ramps up attacks on Ukraine as Trump criticizes them
Lavrov’s remarks were very much in line with the comments made by both Putin and Lukashenko on August 1, indicating that the Kremlin is directing its spokespeople on how to shape public dialogue about the negotiations, according to ISW.
Experts pointed out that the common themes from Putin, Lukashenko, and Lavrov represent Moscow’s clear viewpoint on the peace discussions and their overarching military ambitions regarding Ukraine.
ISW firmly believes that Russia harbors no intention to back down from its longstanding demands, which effectively demand Ukraine’s surrender, while persisting in provocative language designed to disrupt the unity of the U.S. and Europe.
In related updates:Analyst states Trump’s visit aims to nail down a peace proposal for Ukraine
On August 1, Putin repeated his unyielding conditions for halting the conflict in Ukraine during a meeting with Lukashenko. His demands include an unconditional withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from occupied regions like Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhya, and Kherson; Ukraine’s pledge against joining NATO; and stipulations regarding the Russian language and religious matters in Ukraine.
Additionally, Putin reiterated inaccuracies regarding the “illegitimacy” of Ukraine’s government and painted Moscow’s stance as one aimed at peace.
In response, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine was ready for direct talks at the leadership level.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump warned of new sanctions against Russia if they do not agree to ceasefire terms by August 8, threatening further restrictions against countries buying Russian oil.
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Section: Russian war
Author: Alex Stezhensky
