Moscow:Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has announced that Moscow is open to considering proposals from US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner but firmly ruled out making any political concessions in response.
According to Anadolu Agency – English, Lavrov emphasized that Russia would evaluate any proposals based on their economic and financial advantages. Speaking at a meeting with university graduates who had recently joined Russia's diplomatic service, he stated, "We shall see what they propose. If they offer something that is economically and financially advantageous to us, then why not?" He underscored that any agreement must not involve political concessions or expectations of political favors in international affairs.
Lavrov also addressed US President Donald Trump's recent decision regarding Russia-related sanctions. He noted that while Trump had waived key sanctions, he had not abandoned the tariff measure entirely, as imposing sweeping duties was not in Washington's interests at the current stage. Lavrov suggested that the US aims to prevent a crisis in global energy markets ahead of the elections, which aligns with their acceptance of Russian diesel fuel supplies.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov expressed Moscow's hope that US envoys would soon meet Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Kremlin anticipates that Witkoff and Kushner will brief Putin on their discussions with Ukrainian and European representatives, continuing the dialogue between Moscow and Washington. Peskov described the meetings as "important, timely and substantive," highlighting the value Moscow places on the envoys' mediation efforts.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy indicated that Witkoff is scheduled to visit Russia to present proposals aimed at advancing peace efforts. These proposals include the possibility of a trilateral meeting between the leaders of Ukraine, Russia, and the US. Zelenskyy expressed a unified stance with European partners in pursuing peace and encouraged American involvement in bringing these ideas to the Russians.