Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has said he is open to meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, while stressing
That any meaningful progress toward peace in Ukraine must take Russia’s interests into account. Speaking to state news agency RIA, Lavrov said that both sides recognize the importance of maintaining dialogue despite ongoing tensions. “Secretary of State Marco Rubio and I understand the need for regular communication,” he noted. “It is crucial for discussing the Ukrainian issue and advancing the bilateral agenda. That is why we communicate by telephone and are ready for face-to-face meetings when required.”
The remarks come amid reports of friction within Moscow’s foreign policy circles following the postponement of a planned Putin–Trump summit last month. The Kremlin on Friday dismissed speculation that Lavrov had fallen out of favor with President Vladimir Putin, insisting that the foreign minister continues to enjoy the president’s full confidence.
According to Reuters and other media outlets, Washington reportedly shelved plans for the summit after Russia signaled it would not compromise on key conditions related to Ukraine. The Financial Times quoted a source suggesting that an earlier exchange between Lavrov and Rubio may have contributed to Washington’s hesitation.
While diplomatic relations between Moscow and Washington remain strained, both sides have continued sporadic contacts through official channels. Lavrov’s latest comments suggest that Moscow still views direct communication as essential, even as the war in Ukraine shows little sign of resolution.
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