Threat of nuclear war is real - Lavrov

Lavrov also acknowledged there's a possibility of the conflict escalating to nuclear weapons

Lavrov also acknowledged there's a possibility of the conflict escalating to nuclear weapons, though he also sounded a hopeful note about the prospects of a peace accord.

"This is our key position on which we base everything. The risks now are considerable," Lavrov said.

"I would not want to elevate those risks artificially. Many would like that. The danger is serious, real, And we must not underestimate it."

Lavrov also accused President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine of pretending to negotiate, calling him "a good actor”.