German, Russian Foreign Ministers Hold First Talks Since Ukraine Invasion

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in New York on Saturday, marking the first foreign ministerial talks between the two countries since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

The meeting occurred on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. Wadephul urged Lavrov to abandon what he called Russia's dangerous path of escalation toward Germany, Europe, and NATO, and to do everything possible to reach an agreement on grain exports via the Black Sea. He also confronted Russia over a recent drone incident at Leipzig airport, stating Germany was attacked and would react again if its sovereignty rights were violated.

Lavrov, speaking at the UNGA, accused Germany of being Kyiv's main sponsor and questioned if Berlin understood the potential consequences of seeking to be a leading military power in Europe, referencing lessons from World War II. Following the meeting, Lavrov told reporters he learned nothing new from Wadephul, stating the German minister had simply reiterated his public position.

Officials from both sides confirmed the ministers discussed bilateral ties and the war in Ukraine. The German delegation source indicated Wadephul stressed the urgency of the grain export situation for countries in the Global South. Lavrov stated Russia was discussing Black Sea navigation proposals with India, Egypt, and Turkey, and that separate discussions with Ukraine were needed, not in the language of requests but demands, blaming Ukraine for attacks on vessels.

Ukraine has stated it is open to agreements and blames Russia for the war's fallout. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha later spoke with Wadephul, who briefed him on the conversation. Sybiha conveyed Ukraine's position, insisting Moscow end its war and reaffirming support for Ukraine, while also discussing ways to increase pressure on Russia and strengthen Ukraine's resilience ahead of winter.