Russia recognizes Zelensky as the leader of Ukraine and sets conditions for a meeting

• Lavrov acknowledged Zelensky as the "de-facto" head of Ukraine.
• Moscow sets conditions for a meeting between Zelensky and Putin.
• Western countries are accused of disrupting negotiations.

This is reported by RBC Ukraine, Ukrayinska Pravda, RBC Ukraine.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Russia, Sergey Lavrov, stated that Moscow recognizes Volodymyr Zelensky as the "de-facto" head of the Ukrainian state and is ready to meet with him. However, according to Lavrov, Russia will not sign any documents during this meeting.

Lavrov emphasized that for the signing of documents it is necessary to have a clear understanding of the legitimacy of the person who signs them. He asserts that Zelensky is not a legitimate agreement under the Ukrainian Constitution.

Lavrov also stated that the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, is ready to meet with Zelensky, but only on the condition that a preliminary "agenda" for discussion is prepared. He noted that the meeting will only take place for the purpose of allowing Zelensky to demonstrate his legitimacy.

Lavrov also accused Western countries of interfering in the negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, asserting that they are looking for reasons to disrupt the dialogue.

After the meeting with European leaders, US President Donald Trump announced the preparation of a bilateral meeting between Putin and Zelensky, which may take place in a few weeks. However, the dates of this meeting remain unspecified.

Tags: Ukraine/Russia/Politics