Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov speaking at a press conference in Moscow, Russia. Photo: AFP/VNA

Lavrov added the speed of the operation in Ukraine "depends first of all on the need to reduce all risks to civilians and Russian military personnel."

He pointed out that Russia is focused on its main goals in Ukraine, which is the protection and security of civilians. Russia wants to ensure the security of all people in eastern Ukraine "so that they are not threatened by the militarization or denuclearization of this country and there is no threat to the security of Russia from the territory of Ukraine”, said Lavrov.