Saralnama
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that President Vladimir Putin is willing to hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy but questioned Zelenskyy’s legitimacy as Ukraine’s leader, citing the Ukrainian constitution and the need for clarity on the authority of any agreement signer. Lavrov described Zelenskyy as the de facto head of the Ukrainian regime but suggested his calls for a meeting with Putin were aimed at strengthening his legitimacy. Moscow has repeatedly questioned Zelenskyy’s status since his presidential term ended in May, while Kyiv maintains his legitimacy under martial law provisions. Lavrov also said Russia seeks to protect ethnic Russians and Russian-speaking people in Ukraine and denies interest in territorial expansion. The remarks followed a recent meeting between Putin and US President Donald Trump in Alaska, which Putin described as constructive, with hopes for improved Russia-US relations. Trump has urged a direct peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine. Zelenskyy met Trump last week to seek support for a ceasefire and said a meeting with Putin would be the most effective way forward, despite Russia ruling out such a meeting. Lavrov accused Western countries of trying to block negotiations. (Updated 24 Aug 2025, 22:21 IST; source: link)