Russia does not reject negotiations with Ukraine, but their further delay by Kiev will complicate the possibility of reaching an agreement with Moscow, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in an interview with Rossiya-1 TV channel.
Lavrov noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin conveyed Moscow’s position during a meeting with the State Duma and faction leaders.
“The president told the meeting participants that we do not deny negotiations, but those who do should understand that the longer they postpone this process, the more difficult it will be for them to negotiate with us,” the minister said.
According to Lavrov, the Kiev authorities say that negotiations can take place only after Ukraine’s victory.
“And then, when ‘Russia leaves the Ukrainian lands’, they would be ready to talk, imposing their conditions on us. They are actively supported in this, even indulged in London, Washington, Brussels.
“If this is their choice, then we know how we can achieve goals set by Russian President Vladimir Putin as part of a special military operation,” he said.