Moscow, June 24 (QNA) - Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said that a peaceful settlement in Ukraine is possible, affirming Moscow's commitment to the understandings reached at the Alaska Summit.

In remarks carried by Russian media, Lavrov has warned the West against any expansionist plans in Russia's vital sphere of interests.

Russia remains open to negotiations on Ukraine at any time, as long as a resolution can still be achieved through political and diplomatic means, he said.

When it comes to Ukraine negotiations, Moscow "will not take anyone at their word," underscored the Russian Foreign Minister.

The ball is not in Moscow's court, said Lavrov, adding that attempts to shift responsibility onto Russia through diplomatic maneuvering will not succeed.

He has also called on Western countries to recognize that Moscow's security warnings cannot be ignored.

Regarding ongoing diplomatic contact with Europe, the Russian Foreign Minister has said that there has been contact with the office of President of the European Council Antonio Costa and that France and the United Kingdom had sent envoys for talks.

While Russia is prepared to listen to any constructive proposals from European Union politicians, yet it will no longer rely on Europe to resolve the crisis, Lavrov has highlighted. (QNA)