Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov declared that any potential agreement with Ukraine would be invalid if signed under President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Speaking on the matter, Lavrov stressed the importance of legitimacy in international negotiations:

“We would need a very clear understanding by everybody that the person who is signing is legitimate. And according to the Ukrainian constitution, Mr. Zelensky is not, at the moment,” he said.

Lavrov’s remarks reflect Moscow’s ongoing challenge to Kyiv’s political standing amid the prolonged conflict. Russia has repeatedly questioned Zelensky’s authority, particularly regarding the extension of his presidential mandate during wartime.

Ukraine, on the other hand, maintains that Zelensky’s leadership remains valid under emergency measures and that constitutional procedures permit him to remain in office until elections can be safely held.

The dispute over legitimacy adds yet another barrier to diplomatic talks, further complicating efforts toward peace negotiations between the two nations.