Moscow’s chief diplomat announced on Tuesday that Russia is prepared to engage in discussions with President-elect Donald Trump, commending him for identifying NATO’s intentions to welcome Ukraine as a significant factor behind the ongoing conflict that has persisted for nearly three years.
During his annual news conference, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov expressed that any potential peace negotiations should take into account broader security measures for Europe while showing openness to dialogue about security guarantees for Ukraine. Lavrov particularly appreciated Trump’s earlier remarks, which highlighted NATO’s plans to allow Ukraine membership as a cause of the current hostilities.
Trump noted that Russia had firmly established the stance that Ukraine’s accession to NATO should not be permitted, criticizing the Biden administration for pushing the military alliance closer to Russia’s borders. He conveyed understanding for Russia’s apprehensions about NATO’s expansion, suggesting that the geopolitical dynamics were warranted given the situation in Ukraine.
These comments from Trump align with Russia’s narrative regarding its military actions in Ukraine, which commenced in February 2022, framed as a countermeasure against Kyiv’s potential NATO membership and a protective measure for Russian-speaking individuals in Ukraine. However, Ukraine and its allies have condemned these military actions as an unprovoked assault.
Lavrov remarked, “NATO did exactly what it had promised not to do, and Trump said that,” indicating the significance of such a frank acknowledgment from a U.S. leader regarding NATO’s commitments and alleged deceptions concerning its expansion.
Western leaders have refuted Russia’s claims; before the outbreak of the conflict, Moscow insisted on a binding assurance that Ukraine would not join NATO, despite the alliance’s ongoing openness towards European nations. While Russia contends that NATO’s growth infringes on its security, the United States and its allies argue that NATO does not pose a threat to Russia.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has encouraged Western nations to either formally invite Ukraine to join NATO or at least provide robust security guarantees to deter future Russian aggression. Although the alliance’s 32 member countries affirm that Ukraine will eventually gain membership, they have clarified that this will only occur after hostilities have ceased.
Trump has reiterated his goal to facilitate peace in Ukraine, asserting that “Putin wants to meet” and that efforts to coordinate such a meeting are in progress. In previous statements, he has criticized the military assistance being provided to Ukraine and pledged to resolve the conflict swiftly if he were to assume office.
Lavrov highlighted that Russian President Vladimir Putin has consistently signalled a willingness to engage in talks with Trump and mentioned that Russia anticipates learning Trump’s perspectives on Ukraine after he assumes the presidency.
Additionally, Lavrov pointed to favorable remarks made by Trump’s choice for national security adviser, Mike Waltz, who remarked that it is realistic to admit that driving Russian troops “from every inch of Ukrainian soil” is not feasible. He acknowledged that such statements reflect increasing awareness of the realities in the current situation.
As the Biden administration approaches its conclusion, it is intensifying military support for Ukraine to strengthen its position in any forthcoming negotiations, alongside implementing new sanctions targeting Russia’s oil sector.
Lavrov described these actions as attempts by the Biden administration to complicate matters for the incoming government, suggesting that the Democrats have a history of making things difficult for their successors. He stressed that any forthcoming peace talks need to consider Russia’s security issues and promote a comprehensive European security framework.
Touching on wider geopolitical issues, Lavrov noted that concerns related to threats on Russia’s western borders must be addressed as they are foundational to the conflict. He indicated that these issues may only be resolved within the context of broader agreements.
In addition, Lavrov expressed his willingness to discuss security assurances for Ukraine while acknowledging the country’s evolving status. He also responded to Trump’s comments regarding potentially using force or economic incentives to bring Greenland—an autonomous territory of Denmark—under U.S. jurisdiction, emphasizing the necessity of consulting the Greenlandic people about their preferences regarding such matters.
Lavrov stated, “To start, it’s important to listen to the Greenlanders,” affirming their right to self-determination if they feel inadequately represented by Denmark.
