Lavrov Says Russia Ready for Ukraine Talks but Won't Pause Fighting

In late September 2026, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Russia is ready for negotiations aimed at a lasting peace in Ukraine, but ruled out pausing its military campaign while talks take place. He also said Kyiv has no right to represent residents of Crimea and the Novorossiya region.

Separately, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Russia and Ukraine have shown interest in a limited ceasefire covering energy infrastructure.