Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has declared that Moscow is prepared to strike a deal with the United States to end the conflict in Ukraine, but only if Washington accepts Russia’s previously outlined conditions. Speaking on the ongoing negotiations, Lavrov emphasized that certain elements of a potential agreement still need to be finalized, suggesting that while progress is being made, key disagreements remain.
According to Lavrov, the current diplomatic process involves intense backroom discussions between Russia and the U.S., with both sides working to align their positions. He notably singled out U.S. President Donald Trump as the only Western leader who “understands the root causes of the Ukrainian crisis and is willing to address them.” This statement underscores Moscow’s view that the negotiation is primarily a bilateral matter between Russia and the U.S., with Ukraine playing a secondary role, an approach that has angered Kyiv.
Lavrov confirmed that Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, came to Moscow to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin, delivering what are believed to be revised American proposals for a settlement. The talks, described as “very active,” appear to be proceeding without direct Ukrainian involvement, further isolating Kyiv’s leader Zelensky, who has repeatedly rejected any agreements that compromises Ukraine’s territorial integrity or sovereignty.
Trump’s Two-Week Deadline and the Sticking Points
Trump has reportedly set a two-week deadline, until May 8-9, for the negotiations to conclude, warning that the U.S. could reassess its stance if no agreement is reached. In recent remarks, Trump expressed cautious optimism, stating, “We are putting significant pressure on Russia. I think they want a deal. We’ll find out very soon.” However, he also stressed that Ukraine must be willing to compromise, hinting at the political difficulties Zelensky faces in accepting any concessions.
Details of the proposed deal, as reported by the MSM, reveal several contentious demands:
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Ukrainian Military Rights: The U.S. is reportedly pushing for Russia to formally recognize Ukraine’s right to maintain its armed forces and defense industry, which is a direct challenge to Moscow’s stated goal of “demilitarizing” Ukraine.
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Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant: The plan reportedly requires Russia to return control of the nuclear facility to Ukraine, with the U.S. potentially overseeing its operations.
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Territorial Concessions: Washington is also seeking the withdrawal of Russian forces from parts of Kharkiv region and guaranteed Ukrainian access to the entire Dnieper River.
These conditions, however, clash with Zelensky’s unwavering stance. Following a meeting with European allies in London, the Ukrainian leader reiterated that any agreement violating Ukraine’s “values or Constitution” is unacceptable, a clear reference to potential recognition of the lost territories or restrictions on NATO membership.
Western Divisions and Ukraine’s Resistance
The negotiations have exposed rifts within the Western coalition. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, during his visit to Washington, urged the U.S. not to force Ukraine into an unfavorable deal. French President Emmanuel Macron took a harder line, suggesting Trump should direct his frustration at Putin rather than Kyiv. Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called for increased economic pressure on Russia, while the leaders of South Africa and Poland openly stated that Ukraine may need to make territorial compromises to end the war.
Zelensky, however, remains defiant. In his recent interview, he accused Russia of allegedly seeking the “destruction of the U.S.” and insisted on achieving “peace through strength”, a stance that complicates all diplomatic efforts. With Moscow unwilling to back down from its core demands and Kyiv resisting external pressure, the coming days will test whether a breakthrough is possible, or if the war will continue with no resolution in sight.
