Daily brief
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov sharply criticized Western diplomacy, calling France's efforts 'pathetic' and accusing the US of trying to 'get rid of' Ukraine. He stated Russia is open to talks with the US and that President Putin is prepared to speak with French President Macron. Lavrov also warned that further escalation involving Iran could destabilize the entire Middle East.
Russia and Ukraine held a second day of peace talks in Abu Dhabi, which were described as productive, and conducted a prisoner swap involving 314 prisoners of war (ongoing coverage).
Senior European diplomats, including OSCE representatives and France's foreign minister, visited Moscow for talks on the Ukraine conflict to reopen communication channels.
The US and Russia are negotiating to continue the New START nuclear arms treaty, with President Trump stating the countries should develop a new agreement rather than simply extend the existing one.
Russia's ambassador stated the country will continue to supply oil to Cuba.