As for the issues raised by Sergey Viktorovich Lavrov — regarding the level of our negotiators and the matter of a humanitarian pause (which we have discussed separately) — according to widely recognized international practice, this level is determined by the country the individuals represent. That level can be assessed from the outside only by those people, those experts, who possess undeniable authority and a high degree of competence.

What kind of authority can be claimed by the ringleaders of a regime that is utterly rotten and thoroughly corrupt? This is being talked about around the world. What kind of competence can those possibly be proud of who sent the Ukrainian armed forces to suffer senseless and massive losses in the Kursk Oblast — and who are now suffering one defeat after another on the battlefield?

It seems we are dealing with people who not only lack any meaningful competence whatsoever but also lack even the most basic political culture — judging by the kinds of statements and even direct insults they allow themselves to make toward those they claim to be ready to negotiate with.

As for yet another rejection of a two- or three-day ceasefire on humanitarian grounds — this is not the first time it has occurred. It does not surprise us but rather reinforces our conviction that the current regime in Kiev has no real interest in peace. For them, peace most likely means the loss of power. And for this regime, power appears to matter more than peace — or than the lives of people whom, judging by their actions, they do not even seem to regard as their own.

We will continue discussing all the nuances of this issue further with a number of colleagues. We will also consult with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and representatives of the power ministries at the upcoming meeting of the Security Council.

Russian: http://kremlin.ru/events/president/news/77099
English: http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/77099