Key Takeaways From Russian FM Lavrov’s Statements at Presser

© Sputnik . Russian Foreign Ministry / Go to the mediabankRussian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov during a press conference on the sidelines of the 31st meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov during a press conference on the sidelines of the 31st meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. - Sputnik Africa, 1920, 26.12.2024
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On Thursday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held a press conference with foreign and Russian journalists in an online format.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov dismissed the idea of a ceasefire in Ukraine as ineffective, emphasizing the need for reliable agreements that address the root causes of the conflict.
Lavrov reiterated that any future agreements must include mechanisms to prevent violations, highlighting the failure of the Minsk agreements, which he claimed were undermined with US support.
The foreign minister also touched on the principle of territorial integrity, often cited in international law. He argued that the UN Charter is broader and includes the right to self-determination. Drawing parallels with decolonization in Africa, Lavrov stated that the people of Crimea, Donbass, and Novorossia have chosen not to live under what he described as the "Nazi regime" in Kiev.
On human rights issues, Lavrov criticized Ukraine for banning the Russian language and suppressing the Orthodox Church of Ukraine. He stressed that resolving the crisis requires acknowledging these violations. Lavrov referred to China's President Xi Jinping's Global Security Initiative, which calls for addressing the root causes of conflicts.
A general view shows the St. Basil's Cathedral and the Kremlin's Spasskaya Tower on a sunny autumn day, in Moscow, Russia - Sputnik Africa, 1920, 25.12.2024
Russia's Special Operation in Ukraine
Ceasefire in Ukraine Not Acceptable Without Legally Binding Solutions, Says Lavrov

Strategic and Security Considerations

Lavrov stated that Russia determines its military targets in Ukraine based on perceived threats, including decision-making centers in Kiev. He criticized Western nations for their continued military support of Ukraine, which he argued exacerbates the conflict rather than fostering resolution.
Additionally, Lavrov revealed that France had proposed, through private channels, dialogue on Ukraine without involving Kiev while publicly supporting military aid and training fighters for Ukraine. He criticized this approach as contradictory and counterproductive.
Russian top diplomat also stressed the need for elections in Ukraine, asserting that they are essential for establishing a legitimate government capable of engaging in meaningful negotiations.

Syria: Dialogue and Stability

Turning to Syria, Lavrov emphasized the importance of engaging with the country's new authorities to ensure regional stability and prevent Syria from falling apart, as Libya did after its leadership change. He expressed hope for the resumption of economic cooperation and underscored the Astana Platform’s role, alongside Turkey and Iran, in supporting stability in Syria.
Lavrov also highlighted Russia’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens and diplomats in Syria, stating that security remains a priority in ongoing discussions with the Syrian leadership.

Signals from the US

Lavrov acknowledged "signals of interest" from US President-elect Donald Trump's team regarding the resumption of dialogue with Russia. He described these signals as "reasonable and normal" but insisted that the first step must come from the United States, which severed relations after the launch of Russia's military operation in Ukraine.
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