Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu stated that Moscow is open to negotiations with Ukraine “if conditions are right.” Shoigu accused the United States of fueling geopolitical tensions to maintain its “hegemony” and warned of the risk of confrontation between major countries. Speaking at a defense forum in Beijing, he claimed that the US and its Asia-Pacific allies are undermining stability in the region. Shoigu also criticized Western countries for threatening Russia through NATO’s “eastward expansion,” warning of serious consequences. The comments were made at China’s Xiangshan Forum, where military representatives from various countries are in attendance.