The Russian foreign minister has conducted an online briefing with domestic and international media to address major global issues
FILE PHOTO: Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. © Sputnik / Alexey Maishev Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has spoken on the country’s stance regarding the Ukraine conflict, potential dialogue with the incoming administration of US President-elect Donald Trump, and ongoing issues in Syria – in his annual online press conference on Thursday. Here are the main points. – A ceasefire is deemed “a path to nowhere.” Russia is not interested in empty discussions about a resolution. – Future agreements on Ukraine must include mechanisms to prevent violations. – Russia is open to consultations with the Trump administration, and hopes for an understanding of the conflict’s root causes. – Moscow has received multiple private proposals from France to discuss Ukraine without Kiev’s involvement. – Targets within Ukraine will be selected based on threats to Russia, including decision-making centers in Kiev. – The US will continue its efforts to contain Russia, regardless of who is in power in Washington. – Signals from the Trump team indicate an interest in resuming dialogue, but the first step must come from the Americans. READ MORE: Russia ready to discuss Ukraine conflict with Trump – Lavrov – France has approached Russia through closed channels to establish dialogue concerning Ukraine without involving Kiev. – Paris’ ambiguous behavior, given its continuing military support for Kiev, raises doubts about its initiatives. – Russia is willing to engage with Western representatives seeking mutually beneficial agreements, as exemplified by Hungary and Slovakia. – EU members are beginning to express interest in establishing trust-based conversations. READ MORE: Erdogan threatens to ‘bury’ Kurds – Russia maintains contact with the new Syrian authorities and anticipates renewed economic cooperation. – Moscow is prepared to assist in organizing elections in Syria with international recognition. – Concerns regarding Türkiye’s border security with Syria are acknowledged, while Israel should not compromise Syrian security for its own. – Russia opposes any fragmentation of Syria, highlighting the desire of some parties for this outcome.
On the Ukraine conflict:
On US relations:
On French initiatives regarding Ukraine:
On EU relations:
On Syria:
