Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov Questions Europe’s Role in Ukraine Peace Talks

On February 17, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov allegedly questioned the need to include Europe in potential peace talks on Ukraine, given that European politicians appear determined to prolong the war.

This was reported by Reuters, citing Lavrov at a news conference alongside his Serbian counterpart, ahead of U.S.-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia.

According to the news agency, Lavrov argued that Europe has had multiple opportunities to participate in negotiations on Ukraine. He expressed skepticism about how European states could contribute to the talks, considering their current stance on the war.

Delegations from the United States and Russia are reportedly scheduled to meet in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, February 18, where they will discuss ending Russia’s war in Ukraine.

On February 17, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that a special representative from Europe should be involved in negotiations to achieve a just peace in Ukraine.

Additionally, EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas stated Europe will support Ukraine if Kyiv rejects a US-Russia peace deal.