Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov expressed willingness to attend the OSCE meeting in Macedonia if Bulgaria allowed Russian delegation planes to use its airspace. Lavrov noted that Macedonia had extended an invitation to Russia for the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) foreign ministers’ gathering, scheduled in Skopje on Nov. 30 and Dec. 1.

Lavrov mentioned at the Primakov Readings conference in Moscow that Bulgaria had indicated a commitment to opening its airspace for this purpose, stating, “If that happens, we will be there,” as reported by Reuters and Tass news agencies.

On another front, EU Lead Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Peter Stano clarified in Brussels that Lavrov’s attendance wouldn’t contravene European sanctions against Russia. Stano emphasized that despite Lavrov being on the European sanctions list due to the Ukraine conflict, EU nations and Macedonia have the authority to permit Lavrov’s plane passage and landing.

Stano highlighted the summit as an opportunity for direct engagement with Lavrov, citing it as a chance to counter misinformation. Additionally, he viewed the event as a platform for the EU to present its perspective and potentially influence those under sanctions to reconsider their actions.