Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul met on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, marking their first discussions since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The meeting focused on bilateral relations and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with German officials reaffirming Berlin’s position on the war.
The talks were held amid ongoing tensions between Russia and Germany, particularly following Germany’s accusations against Russia of attempting to target two cargo planes at Leipzig airport in August using an explosives-laden drone. These allegations have further strained relations between the two countries.
During the meeting, Wadephul reiterated Germany’s support for Ukraine and emphasized the importance of a ceasefire and negotiations to achieve lasting peace. The German foreign minister’s stance reflects Berlin’s continued commitment to Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict.
This meeting is significant as it is the first between Russian and German foreign ministers since January 2022 when Lavrov met with then-Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock shortly before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The discussions indicate a cautious step towards dialogue despite prevailing tensions over the conflict and other diplomatic disagreements.