Russian FM Lavrov Says Putin Open to Meeting Zelensky Only in Moscow

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin remains open to meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, provided the meeting takes place in Moscow. According to reports, Lavrov dismissed the possibility of arranging talks in any other location and asserted that Russia would guarantee the safety of the Ukrainian leader in the Russian capital.

Lavrov made the remarks when asked about a potential meeting during the G20 leaders' summit scheduled for December. He questioned whether Zelensky would participate in the summit and reiterated that Moscow remains the sole venue proposed by Putin for direct discussions.

Key Details of the Stated Position

• Proposed Venue: Moscow, Russia, is stated as the only acceptable location for the meeting.
• Security Assurance: Lavrov claimed that Russia would guarantee safety for the Ukrainian president in Moscow.
• G20 Summit Context: Doubts were raised regarding Zelensky's participation in the upcoming December G20 leaders' summit.

Practical Implications and Verification

• Direct Talks: Uncertainty continues regarding the prospects of direct negotiations between the two leaders.
• Verification: Interested parties can monitor official diplomatic briefings and statements from the Russian Foreign Ministry for further updates on proposed talks.