Top EU diplomat says Lavrov presented 'lies' at G20 talks

The EU's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, has accused Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov of presenting "lies" during the G20 talks on the Ukraine conflict. Speaking to AFP on Friday, Kallas stated that she and her colleagues were able to confront Lavrov directly about the situation, rebuking his false narratives. The Russian minister's attendance at the G20 foreign ministers meeting in Atlanta, Georgia, has fueled tensions with European representatives, while simultaneously highlighting improved US-Russia relations.

Kallas noted that Russia seems unprepared for peace talks, despite claiming otherwise. She emphasized that while words may be spoken, actions speak louder, and Russia's deeds clearly indicate their lack of readiness to negotiate. Kallas also called for continued pressure on Moscow, particularly to establish a ceasefire in the Black Sea.

Earlier, a traditional family photo of G20 ministers was cancelled, with diplomatic sources stating that some European officials had declined to appear alongside Lavrov. Kallas explained that this decision was not a change in policy but rather a decision to avoid allowing a ceremonial photo opportunity to become a diplomatic distraction following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

A US official stated that the cancellation was to prevent a distraction from the ongoing discussions. Kallas expressed disappointment at the current lack of clear messages regarding the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing that the pressure must be on the aggressor to halt the war.