Russia suggests Turkey and Belarus as Ukraine peace mediators

WISE NEWS PRESS / MOSCOW, RUSSIA — Nov. 25, 2025

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has proposed Turkey and Belarus as potential mediators for the Ukraine conflict, explicitly rejecting the involvement of Western European powers in future diplomatic efforts.

Speaking after a meeting with his Belarusian counterpart Maksim Ryzhenkov, Lavrov signaled a distinct shift in Moscow's diplomatic preferences. While evaluating the peace initiatives proposed by the United States, the Kremlin's top diplomat made it clear that traditional European mediators like France and Germany are no longer considered viable options by Russia.

Assessment of US peace initiatives

Lavrov addressed the peace plan currently being formulated by US President Donald Trump. He noted that while Moscow has not yet received the official version of the text, the "basic provisions" appear to be consistent with previous understandings reached between President Vladimir Putin and Trump.

"We expect a 'provisional' version of the plan to be presented in coordination with the US, Ukraine, and European allies," Lavrov stated. However, he emphasized that certain issues within the proposal require clarification and that Russia remains open to negotiating specific phrasing to reach a resolution.

Turkey and Belarus preferred over EU powers

In a significant snub to Western Europe, Lavrov outlined a new framework for potential mediation. He asserted that Turkey and Belarus are the appropriate candidates to facilitate dialogue between Russia and Ukraine.

"There is no discussion" regarding France or Germany taking on a mediation role, Lavrov emphasized, closing the door on the revival of formats similar to the defunct Normandy Contact Group. Turkey previously hosted peace talks in the early weeks of the war and brokered the Black Sea Grain Initiative, positioning itself as a unique actor capable of maintaining ties with both Moscow and Kyiv.

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