Moscow denies existence of arrangements for new trilateral talks concerning Ukrainian crisis

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov stated on Wednesday that there are currently no plans to conduct contacts within the trilateral coordination framework involving Russia, the United States, and Ukraine. Ryabkov explained that while such contacts took place in the past, Kyiv suspended them believing that those who drive and support it would guarantee the continuation of a course that has actually transformed into an escalation of terrorist and criminal activities in its policies. He emphasized that there are currently no plans for contacts in this format, noting that future developments are not in Russian hands. He added that the leadership has repeatedly affirmed openness to such communications. Ryabkov continued that contacts between Russia and the United States regarding Ukraine have not ceased, clarifying that there was no pause, pointing to the meeting on September 23 between Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, where special focus was placed on resolving the Ukrainian crisis. Regarding Washington's pivotal role in influencing Kyiv, Ryabkov stated that the central role of the United States in exerting influence over Kyiv and the Europeans is entirely clear to Moscow. Answering reporters about his preferred candidate in the Brazilian presidential election, he concluded that Moscow respects the choice of the Brazilian people and seeks to develop comprehensive, deep, and mutually beneficial relations with this pivotal country, just as it has done in recent years.