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The talk was about a 20-year delay in Ukraine’s entry into NATO and the deployment of peacekeeping forces in the country.

This statement by the Russian minister has already been analyzed by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

Moscow’s tough position

In an interview with Russian propagandists, Lavrov stated that the presented options are unacceptable for Russia. His comments reinforced Vladimir Putin’s Dec. 26 rejection of Trump’s proposals. Lavrov stressed that any agreement to end the conflict must eliminate the so-called “root causes” of the war and provide mechanisms to prevent their recurrence.

According to Lavrov, Russia continues to consider the following to be the key reasons for the war:

• Allegedly “violation of NATO promises not to advance to the east” and “aggressive absorption of territories” near the Russian borders.
• Discrimination against ethnic Russians, Russian language, media and culture on the territory of Ukraine.

ISW analysts note that Lavrov’s remarks reflect Russia’s continued desire to achieve full satisfaction of its demands. This is a continuation of the Kremlin’s line formulated back in late 2021 and early 2022 before the full-scale invasion.

Moscow’s key requirements include:

• Forcing Ukraine to permanent neutrality, excluding the possibility of joining NATO.
• Establishing strict restrictions on the size and capabilities of the Ukrainian army.
• Elimination of the current Ukrainian government.

Lavrov’s statements thus highlight Russia’s reluctance to compromise and confirm that the Kremlin continues to insist on its original terms. The comments heighten diplomatic tensions and cast doubt on whether the war will end soon.

Earlier, Kursor reported that Putin was declared the main loser of the year.