Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov used his platform at the United Nations General Assembly to criticize Europe for obstructing peace efforts in Ukraine. The conflict has intensified, with both Moscow and Kyiv increasing military actions after the deadliest summer since the invasion in 2022.

On Saturday, Russian attacks resulted in the deaths of four individuals across Ukraine, according to officials. In response, Kyiv has been targeting Russian oil refineries and industrial sites using long-range drones.

Efforts led by the United States have not succeeded in achieving a lasting ceasefire or a peace agreement. President Donald Trump expressed hope that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy would reach an agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Meanwhile, Lavrov accused Europe of actively attempting to block talks facilitated by the U.S. government.

“Europe is doing everything it can to thwart peace talks in which the Trump administration is interested,” Lavrov stated in a spirited address during the U.N. General Assembly.

He emphasized that the objectives of Russia’s military operations would be met, security threats would be eliminated, and peace would be restored, regardless of the circumstances.

Prior to his speech, Lavrov met German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, marking the first meeting between Moscow and Berlin’s foreign ministers since the war started. The talks occurred amid rising tensions, with Germany accusing Russia of attempting a drone attack on Leipzig airport, leading each country to order the closure of the other’s consulate.

European nations, such as Germany, have recently raised concerns over what they describe as increased Russian sabotage activities on their territories. German Foreign Minister Wadephul stated that Russia’s war threatens millions of lives, the Ukrainian state’s existence, and European peace. He urged Russia to negotiate to stop the conflict.

Addressing the assembly, President Trump discussed his meeting with Zelenskyy. He expressed hope that Zelenskyy would “settle” with Putin soon, preferably before the heavy winter. He encouraged Zelenskyy to reach an agreement with Putin.

Zelenskyy, trusting the White House’s support to halt Russia’s invasion, stated on social media that Russia was escalating daily. He urged the world to respond more forcefully to prevent the war from spreading further.