In a statement published on Friday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov expressed skepticism about the readiness of Ukraine and the West to engage in peace talks, despite their calls for such discussions. Lavrov noted, "Despite the increasing rhetoric around the need for peace talks, there are no tangible actions demonstrating that Kyiv and the West are genuinely prepared." He highlighted ongoing Western military support to Ukraine, development of ultimatums towards Russia, a legal prohibition on negotiations by Ukraine, and unresolved legitimacy concerns regarding the Ukrainian government.

Russian President Vladimir Putin previously stated in December that Russia had no preconditions to initiate discussions with Ukraine and was open to negotiating with various parties, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. However, Putin emphasized that for Moscow to view Zelenskiy as a legitimate party to any agreement, Zelenskiy would need to be re-elected, as his initial term had been extended due to martial law.

Ukraine maintains that Zelenskiy's legitimacy is unquestionable and perceives Russian statements on the matter as attempts to undermine his leadership.