Lavrov stated the positive attitude of the Russian Federation to the negotiations on Ukraine in Istanbul

Russia is positive about the possibility of resuming negotiations in Istanbul on a settlement in Ukraine, but does not consider this topic a priority. This was announced on April 18 by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov at the Antalya Diplomatic Forum.

"We perceive positively the possibility of resuming negotiations [on Ukraine] in Istanbul. This topic, the topic of resuming negotiations, is not the number one priority in our affairs right now. We did not impose negotiations on anyone, we always assumed that if a partner is ready, then we will not be involved," he said.

According to the diplomat, the security guarantees that Europe seeks to provide to Kiev in these negotiations are aimed at preserving the Nazi regime in Ukraine and a springboard for increasing threats against Russia.

He added that Moscow has never walked away from initiatives of diplomatic discussion and is ready to consider proposals from interested countries. As soon as the real proposal matures, Russia will consider it.

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on April 17 that Ankara considers it important to continue the dialogue on the Ukrainian settlement. He added that Turkey is working with both Moscow and Kiev on these initiatives.

On April 16, US President Donald Trump expressed hope for an early end to the conflict in Ukraine. He also noted that currently his attention is mainly focused on what is happening in the Middle East.