New York:Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that Moscow remains committed to engaging in peace talks with Ukraine, countering claims that it is avoiding negotiations.

According to Anadolu Agency, Lavrov made these remarks following his address to the UN General Assembly. He emphasized that previous rounds of talks were halted not by Moscow, but by those who now accuse Russia of avoiding contact.

Lavrov also discussed US-Russia relations, affirming that both nations maintain regular dialogue through various channels. He expressed Moscow's willingness to engage in discussions, particularly with the United States, and highlighted the importance of honest communication about disagreements. Lavrov confirmed that Russia is ready to revisit the understandings reached during last year's summit in Alaska.

Regarding Germany, Lavrov described his recent meeting with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul as unproductive, stating it yielded no new proposals. He criticized Wadephul for merely reiterating Germany's existing public statements and implied that Germany expects Moscow to make concessions on the Ukraine conflict following the meeting.

Lavrov also addressed US President Donald Trump's rejection of an Iranian proposal to resolve their conflict, suggesting a return to the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, a framework deal mediated by Pakistan. He described the memorandum as a fair deal and suggested revisiting it.

On the topic of the upcoming election of the next UN secretary-general, Lavrov expressed hope that the new leader would represent the interests of the global community. He noted that several candidates possess the necessary qualities outlined in the UN Charter, as the term of the current secretary-general, Antonio Guterres, concludes at the end of this year.