Russia's Lavrov Rules Out Putin-Zelensky Meeting Despite US Efforts

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov confirmed that there are no plans for a meeting between President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent efforts and suggestions that such talks were imminent. Lavrov emphasized that Putin is willing to meet only when a clear presidential agenda is established, which he stated is currently not ready. He reiterated Russia's position that key negotiating points, including opposition to Ukraine joining NATO and discussions on territorial concessions, have been rejected by Zelensky, calling into question his legitimacy as a leader. These remarks highlight ongoing challenges and hardened stances in diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine, despite Trump’s push for a summit to end the war. The Russian foreign minister also criticized the White House meeting with Zelensky and European allies as ineffective, underscoring Moscow's reluctance to engage without preconditions. Overall, the situation reflects deep divisions and skepticism over the prospects of a direct dialogue between Putin and Zelensky at this time.