On October 7, 2024, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, in an interview with Newsweek, once again issued the Kremlin’s tough ultimatums, that Ukraine must abandon its plans to join NATO and recognize “territorial realities.” Lavrov means Russian control over the Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson regions, which is already enshrined in the Russian Constitution. Lavrov emphasized that a peaceful settlement was possible only if some conditions were met, namely, the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from these regions, Ukraine’s neutral and non-aligned status, its demilitarization, and so-called “denazification.” In addition, he insisted on ensuring the rights of Russian-speaking citizens and demanded the lifting of all sanctions against Russia.
These Russian demands violate international law and Ukraine’s sovereignty, making them unacceptable not only for Kyiv, but also for the entire international community. Western countries fully support Ukraine in its efforts to preserve its territorial integrity, rejecting the Kremlin’s attempts to subjugate by pressure and threats.
One of the main topics of Lavrov’s interview was the worrying statements about the possibility for Ukraine to get long-range missiles from the West to strike against Russian territory. Lavrov called this “playing with fire” and warned that it could have “dangerous consequences.” Moscow’s threats demonstrate the Kremlin’s desire to put pressure on the international community and derail the important Ramstein negotiations.
However, Lavrov’s statements look like an attempt to intimidate ahead of an important event — the Ramstein meeting, which will be decisive for achieving peace in Ukraine. For the first time, this meeting will be held at the level of heads of state, which indicates its importance in decision-making. The main topics will be the provision of additional military assistance to Ukraine, including long-range weapons and air defense systems, which can help strengthen its defense capability and protect civilians from Russian attacks.
In addition, the agenda includes the implementation of the Peace Formula proposed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This Peace Formula, based on international law and the principles of the UN Charter, remains the only fair and sustainable way to end hostilities and restore peace. Based on this Formula, a Victory Plan was developed. It has already been presented to Ukraine’s Western allies and includes step-by-step instructions to achieve peace and restore control over all its territories.
The Ramstein meeting could become a milestone in the implementation of this plan. For the first time, multiply measures to support Ukraine will be discussed at the level of heads of state, which would be a significant step in restoring stability in Europe and the world. Such a high level of the meeting gives hope for important decisions on a fair peace and Ukraine’s return to its internationally recognized borders.
Western allies’ support to be discussed at this meeting includes not only military, but also economic measures to help Ukraine strengthen its defense and restore its destroyed infrastructure. The international community should understand that a peaceful settlement is possible only on fair terms, and not under Russia’s pressure and blackmail.
Thus, Lavrov’s “playing with fire” quote is nothing more than Kremlin’s attempt to disrupt international efforts to achieve peace in Ukraine. But the peaceful settlement, expected to result from such efforts, is based on the principles of international law and support for the territorial integrity of Ukraine.