Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reiterated Moscow's stance on Ukraine's geopolitical future during a Thursday interview, emphasizing that Kyiv must adopt a "neutral and benign" posture to ensure stable relations with Russia. Lavrov stressed that such a Ukraine would not need to be an ally but must respect the rights of Russian-speaking communities and ethnic minorities under international law.
"Our priority is the people that have lived in these territories," Lavrov stated, highlighting linguistic, educational, and religious freedoms as non-negotiable principles. He criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's peace proposals for allegedly neglecting minority protections, calling these rights "enshrined in the UN Charter" and not "bargaining chips."
The remarks followed a second round of U.S.-mediated talks in Abu Dhabi, where Russia and Ukraine agreed to a prisoner exchange but made no progress on territorial disputes or a ceasefire. Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov described the discussions as seeking a "dignified and lasting peace," though details remain undisclosed.
Analysts suggest Lavrov’s comments reflect Moscow’s long-term strategy to secure influence in regions with historical Russian ties, even as diplomatic efforts stall. The focus on minority rights underscores Russia’s narrative of protecting Russian-speaking populations, a theme central to its foreign policy since 2014.
