Lavrov: Moscow Awaits US Reply on Deep-strike Role

In an interview, Lavrov stressed that Russia does not issue ultimatums and remains open to dialogue with US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, noting that President Vladimir Putin is ready to receive them again. Lavrov also commented on a recent press conference in Belgrade, where Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic appeared taken aback by a question from a German journalist. The minister expressed hope for a reaction from Serbia, citing its significant contribution to the victory over Nazism.

The remarks follow an August 8 joint press conference in Belgrade, where Michael Martens of Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung asked what European countries could do to help kill more Russians. Moscow condemned the question, calling calls for ethnic extermination unacceptable and criminal. Lavrov emphasized that growing voices across the shared space are urging an immediate halt to hostilities, but insisted that any settlement must be long-term, reliable, and sustainable.