Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Thursday cast doubt on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s authority to sign a peace agreement, raising questions about the legitimacy of any deal to end the war.
Lavrov emphasized the need for thorough preparation: “Our president has repeatedly said that he is ready to meet, including with Mr. Zelenskyy… With the understanding that all issues that require consideration at the highest level will be well worked out, and experts and ministers will prepare appropriate recommendations.”
He added, “And, of course, with the understanding that when and if—hopefully, when—it comes to signing future agreements, the issue of the legitimacy of the person who signs these agreements from the Ukrainian side will be resolved.”
Lavrov cited Zelenskyy’s term, originally set to expire in May 2024, as a concern. Russian officials fear a future Ukrainian leader could challenge any deal signed by Zelenskyy, though Kyiv maintains he remains the legitimate president.
