Lavrov: Russia ready to resume talks with Ukraine

Russia is prepared to resume peace negotiations with Ukraine from where they previously left off, according to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Speaking to journalists on Tuesday, Lavrov emphasized Russia's consistent readiness to engage in dialogue with Kyiv. He referenced the talks held in Istanbul shortly after the conflict began in 2022, and subsequent discussions in 2025, suggesting a willingness to revisit those efforts. However, the article notes that there has been no indication of a shift in Russia's core position. Moscow's terms reportedly include the cession of the remaining part of the Donbas region, territory that Ukraine has managed to defend against Russian forces. The report also mentions that the last US-mediated peace talks occurred in February, preceding the conflict between the United States and Israel against Iran. The article implies that while Russia expresses readiness for talks, the fundamental disagreements, particularly regarding territorial control in Donbas, remain a significant obstacle to any potential progress.