Lavrov Rejects "Zelensky's Peace Formula"

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that Moscow will not use the "peace formula" proposed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as a basis for negotiations and believes that Kyiv is still not ready for real peace talks. Lavrov told Russian media that Kyiv's idea of expelling Russia from Eastern Ukraine and Crimea with Western assistance is merely an "illusion." He emphasized that Russia will not engage in discussions with any party based on Zelensky's "peace formula." The Russian Foreign Minister indicated that the authorities in Kyiv are not prepared for dialogue, according to his statement to Sputnik news agency. He added, "It is clear that Kyiv is not ready for dialogue by proposing all kinds of ideas... and Zelensky's 'peace formula' regarding the withdrawal of our forces from Russian territories in Donbas, Crimea, Zaporizhia, and Kherson, as well as compensation from Russia with Western help and recognition of international courts, is simply an illusion; of course, we will not speak with any party under these circumstances." He continued, "Let me remind you that as soon as the special military operation began, Zelensky requested to sit at the negotiating table; we did not refuse and agreed to meet with his representatives, and several rounds of negotiations showed that agreements acceptable to both parties could be reached." He added, "However, the negotiation process that began in February showed Zelensky's complete lack of independence in making important decisions, and indeed last April, at the request of the West, which was interested in continuing hostilities, he quickly halted the negotiations and tightened his position sharply."