Breakthrough in US-Russia Talks: Ukraine Misunderstandings Resolved

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov announced that misunderstandings with the U.S. over Ukraine have been resolved after a significant meeting between President Putin and U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff. Both nations are working towards a peaceful resolution, with security discussions extending beyond Ukraine.

In a significant turn of events, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov declared on Thursday that all misunderstandings with the United States concerning Ukraine have been resolved. This comes in the wake of a pivotal meeting earlier this month between President Vladimir Putin and U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff. The Kremlin lauded the December 2 meeting with Witkoff and Jared Kushner as "constructive," despite a lack of major breakthroughs to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Lavrov emphasized that the discussions had reinforced mutual understandings established between Putin and former U.S. President Donald Trump during a summit in Alaska in August. He expressed optimism that the negotiations with American counterparts have curtailed previous miscommunications.

Lavrov went on to mention that Russia seeks a comprehensive package of documents to support a long-term peace deal in Ukraine, coupled with security guarantees for all stakeholders involved. Yet, he firmly reaffirmed Russia's stance against Ukraine joining NATO and highlighted the necessity for protections for Russian speakers in Ukraine. Moscow has also conveyed additional proposals to the U.S. concerning collective security guarantees extending beyond Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies.)