Russia: Politics

Domestic

Russian officials articulated a firm stance on the conflict in Ukraine and international relations. Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated Russia is ready to discuss placing Ukraine under UN administration but emphasized that its goals are not subject to compromise. He also criticized international bodies, describing the OSCE as near self-destruction. Concurrently, the Kremlin announced a new round of negotiations on Ukraine would be held. In other diplomatic activity, Lavrov described Europe as being in decline and noted a shift of Russian diplomats to Africa, while also discussing relations with Syria, Cuba, and Turkmenistan. President Vladimir Putin held a phone call with the president of South Africa and sent a message to Iran's president.

Domestically, Vladimir Putin conducted a series of appointments and meetings. He transferred a deputy foreign minister to the role of ambassador to Turkey and appointed new regional judges. Putin also held meetings at the Kremlin, including with the president of Madagascar to discuss cooperation and with the governor of the Oryol region. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova defended the decision to begin the military operation as timely and outlined a condition for achieving sustainable peace in Ukraine.

International

A significant new round of Russia-Ukraine peace talks, mediated by the United States, was held in Abu Dhabi and described as productive. A key development was a senior Russian diplomat stating Russia is open to discussing 'temporary external governance' for Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated the U.S. has a goal of reaching an agreement by June and that Ukraine would consider a referendum on any deal under its own conditions. Russian officials, including Lavrov, stated any deal must include global recognition of Russian control over Crimea and the Donbas.

Russian officials extensively commented on U.S. politics, with Lavrov discussing Donald Trump's approach to Ukraine and NATO. Lavrov stated Russia accepted a U.S. proposal for talks made in Alaska but claims the U.S. is now stalling. In other bilateral relations, Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko met with Putin in Moscow to reinforce ties, signing several documents as part of Union State integration. Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Putin held a video call, praising their alliance as stabilizing. Separately, France and Russia confirmed technical preparations are underway for a potential phone call between Macron and Putin.