Russia has reiterated that it will not accept a European military force in Ukraine. European powers have long been discussing a military force that would patrol Ukraine for surveillance purposes after a peace settlement. This is the approach of the pro-Ukrainian coalition of the willing. Russia strongly opposes a European force on Ukrainian territory.

The coalition entered into talks with the US this week to offer Ukraine security guarantees in the event of a peace settlement or ceasefire with Russia. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov sees this as an attempt by Europe and Ukraine to sabotage Donald Trump's peace process.

Regarding a possible summit between the Russian and Ukrainian presidents, Lavrov said that President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly stated his willingness to negotiate with Zelensky. However, Ukraine has introduced a law prohibiting negotiations with Putin.

Moreover, Moscow is questioning Zelensky's legitimacy as president, as his term effectively ended a year ago. Due to the war, no new elections were held, and within Ukraine itself, there was little protest against Zelensky's continued presidency. But Lavrov expressed concern that Zelensky lacks the authority to make a deal and that a future leader could therefore reverse it.