Russia's Foreign Minister Lavrov claims that he does not listen to Ukraine's peace talks statements

Russian Foreign Minister Dismisses Ukraine's Statements on Peace Talks, Citing Contradictions

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that he "does not listen" to Ukraine's statements regarding peace talks, claiming that recent comments from senior officials in Kyiv have been contradictory. Lavrov's remarks were made on July 27 during a meeting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Laos.

Lavrov criticized comments made by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, who recently affirmed China's unwavering commitment to Ukraine's territorial integrity. Kuleba expressed this sentiment in a video post on Instagram on July 25, stating, "China has unshakably reaffirmed its respect for the principle of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity."

Lavrov dismissed Kuleba's statement, noting that it was "not… the first time" Kuleba had made such claims and alleging that Kuleba had previously made contradictory remarks. Lavrov stated, "Not long ago, they were talking about negotiations," and added that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had expressed readiness to engage in discussions with Russian representatives. Lavrov concluded, "I don't listen to them, to be honest."

These dismissive comments from Lavrov stand in contrast to Russia's repeated assertions of openness to peace negotiations. Kuleba made his comments during a recent visit to China, where he held discussions with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

During the ASEAN meeting, Lavrov claimed that he had met with Wang Yi and discussed Kuleba's visit, asserting that the Chinese position remains unchanged. Lavrov indicated that China insists any peace talks must be "acceptable to all sides."

China has maintained a neutral stance in the Russia-Ukraine conflict while simultaneously strengthening economic ties with Moscow. It has emerged as Russia's leading source of dual-use goods, providing equipment that the Russian defense industry can utilize in its attacks against Ukraine.

Following his talks in Guangzhou, President Zelensky stated in his July 24 evening address that China had promised not to supply weapons to Russia and had signaled its support for Ukrainian sovereignty.

According to Ukraine's Foreign Ministry, Kuleba emphasized during his meeting with Wang Yi that Kyiv is prepared to engage in peace negotiations when Moscow demonstrates readiness to negotiate in good faith.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry acknowledged that "conditions and timing are not yet ripe" for ceasefire negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. However, it expressed willingness to play a constructive role in facilitating peace efforts.

Kuleba highlighted the significance of avoiding temporary solutions and ultimatums in future peace negotiations. He stressed, "Ukraine will never bend a single centimeter if anyone, regardless of where they come from, tries to speak to us in the language of ultimatums."

Russian forces killed civilian woman in Kherson Oblast

A 37-year-old woman was killed in a Russian attack on Antonivka in Kherson Oblast. The shelling struck the town, claiming yet another civilian life amidst ongoing hostilities in the region.

Oleksandr Prokudin, Head of the Kherson Oblast Military Administration, confirmed the incident, stating, "Russia has claimed the life of another civilian in Kherson Oblast."

This attack highlights the continuing danger faced by civilians in the area as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine persists. Authorities urge residents to remain cautious as the humanitarian crisis worsens.

Russian attack on Sumy kills teenager, 12 more people injured, mostly children

One child was killed, and 12 civilians were injured, including 6 children, as a result of the Russian attack on the city of Hlukhiv in Sumy Oblast.

Investigation materials have revealed that Russian forces used prohibited warfare tactics by launching a multiple rocket system strike on the center of Hlukhiv in the Shostka district at approximately 12:40 PM on July 27, 2024.

The attack resulted in injuries to 13 civilians, including seven children. Tragically, a 14-year-old boy later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital. The use of banned methods underscores the escalating humanitarian crisis and ongoing threats to civilians in the region.

This attack has further highlighted the severe consequences of the ongoing conflict, with local authorities calling for increased international attention and intervention.