Lavrov accuses Europe of hindering Ukraine peace talks as Trump urges Zelenskyy to negotiate with Putin

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told the United Nations General Assembly that European countries are obstructing peace negotiations that the United States supports. "Europe is doing everything it can to thwart peace talks in which the Trump administration is interested," Lavrov said, adding that Russia’s "special military operation" will achieve its objectives and restore peace regardless of circumstances.

Lavrov made the remarks after meeting German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, the first such encounter between the two ministers since the conflict began. Germany has recently accused Russia of a drone attack on Leipzig airport, and both nations have closed each other's consulates.

In a separate address, Wadephul warned that Russia’s war threatens millions of civilians, Ukraine’s sovereignty and European security, and urged Moscow to negotiate an end to the fighting.

President Donald Trump, speaking after a meeting with Zelenskyy at the assembly, said he hoped the Ukrainian leader would "settle" with Russian President Vladimir Putin, suggesting a deal could be reached before the upcoming winter.

Zelenskyy responded on social media, stating that Russia is escalating its attacks daily and calling for stronger international responses to prevent further spread of the war.