Lavrov: Russia will not “run around and beg” for talks with Europe

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that Moscow is ready for dialogue with Europe but does not intend to seek it out itself.

He made the statement at a briefing following his visit to the Republic of India and the Council of Foreign Ministers.

“We are not asking to be included in any negotiation processes with Europe. And President Putin’s response should be viewed precisely in the context of the fact that we are ready, but will never run around and beg,” — Lavrov said.

In addition, the Russian foreign minister made clear that he does not consider the statements by European officials about the need for dialogue with the Russian side to be serious.

Against this backdrop, discussions continue about possible negotiators from the European side. Russian President Vladimir Putin named former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder as a potential representative of the European Union in talks with Russia. However, incumbent German Chancellor Friedrich Merz rejected the nomination, stating that “Europeans will decide for themselves” who will speak on their behalf.

Among other names being mentioned are former German Chancellor Angela Merkel, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, and a number of other politicians.

Earlier, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Sybiha stated that Kyiv wants Europe to help resume negotiations with Russia.