Sergey Lavrov criticizes European stance on Ukraine peace talks at UN General Assembly

During the United Nations General Assembly on September 26, 2026, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov addressed the international community, accusing European nations of systematically opposing peace initiatives regarding the conflict in Ukraine. Lavrov asserted that while the administration of Donald Trump is interested in pursuing peace negotiations, European countries are actively working to undermine these efforts.

Furthermore, Lavrov reiterated that Moscow intends to achieve its military objectives in Ukraine, regardless of conditions, aiming to eliminate threats to Russian national security. Following a meeting with his German counterpart, Johann Wadephul, the Russian minister also voiced opposition to reforming the UN Security Council in a way that would grant additional seats to Western nations, specifically naming Germany and Japan, which he accused of pursuing a path of militarization. Additionally, the Russian official expressed readiness for Moscow to assist in stabilizing the situation in the Strait of Hormuz and called for the lifting of the blockade against Cuba.