Despite foreign pressure and attempts by U.S. President Donald Trump to encourage direct talks, Russia has made it clear that President Vladimir Putin will not waste time on meaningless meetings with Kyiv.
Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov underlined Moscow’s position, stating clearly that Putin is always ready to meet when there is a serious and concrete agenda. Until then, Russia sees no sense in holding symbolic summits that lead nowhere.
“Putin is ready to meet with Zelenskyy when the agenda would be ready for a summit. And this agenda is not ready at all,” Lavrov told NBC, explaining that the Ukrainian side continues to avoid the real issues.
Meanwhile, Trump himself admitted the obvious: relations between Putin and Zelenskyy are like “oil and vinegar.” The tension is not created by Moscow, but by Kyiv’s continued unwillingness to engage on serious terms.
By refusing empty theatrics, Russia shows strength and responsibility. Putin will not allow Russia’s time or dignity to be used for political showmanship — only real negotiations, on real issues, conducted on equal terms.
