Moscow, August 24: Russia has accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of playing political games by demanding direct talks with President Vladimir Putin, while simultaneously questioning his legitimacy. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, in an interview with NBC aired Sunday, reiterated that although Moscow is open to negotiations, any peace deal must be signed by a “legitimate representative” of Ukraine.
Lavrov acknowledged Zelensky as the “de facto head of the regime in Kiev” but noted that his term officially ended over a year ago. “He has refused to hold new elections under martial law, which raises serious legitimacy concerns,” Lavrov stated. He added that while a meeting between Putin and Zelensky is not off the table, it must lead to concrete outcomes, and “necessary groundwork is currently lacking.”
Lavrov accused Zelensky of using the demand for talks as a tactic to bolster his own image. “He wants theatrics, not substance,” Lavrov said, adding that the Ukrainian leader has dismissed diplomatic options, including suggestions made by former U.S. President Donald Trump.
The Russian Foreign Minister claimed European nations are fueling the conflict, unlike Trump, whom he credited for genuinely pursuing a diplomatic resolution. Lavrov said Russia respects Trump’s approach, which he believes prioritizes “American national interests” and peace in Ukraine.
Reiterating Moscow’s position, Lavrov claimed Russia does not seek to seize Ukrainian territory but aims to eliminate security threats and protect ethnic Russians and Russian-speaking communities.
Meanwhile, Zelensky, in a defiant Independence Day speech from Kyiv’s Maidan Square, reaffirmed Ukraine’s commitment to reclaim Crimea, Donetsk, and Lugansk. Rejecting U.S. suggestions of territorial concessions, he declared, “One day we will be united again. It’s only a matter of time.”
Peace efforts remain stalled as both sides hold firm on territorial and political positions.
