Austrian Foreign Minister assessed Putin's 'desire' for peace.

Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg expressed his attitude to the situation in Ukraine and the prospects for a peaceful resolution of the conflict.

According to him, the Russian side does not show a serious desire to start constructive negotiations. Schallenberg noted that he hopes for a change in this position in the future.

"Does it currently appear that the Russian side is not very serious about meaningful negotiations? Yes!" – the minister emphasized.

Schallenberg also stressed the importance of involving other influential states, such as China, Brazil, and India, in diplomatic efforts for a peaceful resolution. He believes this to be a key factor in achieving stable peace.

The minister drew attention to the global consequences of the conflict and the need to rethink relations with the countries of the Global South. Schallenberg expressed concern about Russia's attempts to manipulate public opinion in these countries, portraying NATO and the European Union as aggressors.

"If Russia manages to attack a neighboring state in a neo-imperialistic spirit and then explain to other countries that the real aggressor is NATO and the European Union, it indeed raises questions: how is this possible?" – Schallenberg emphasized.

The minister called on the West to engage in more active dialogue with the countries of the Global South on equal terms.

Earlier, Schallenberg noted that Europe mistakenly believed in the rationality of Putin's regime.