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Lavrov Discusses Ukraine, US Relations, and Global Tensions in December 2024 Interview

In an interview with TASS on December 30, 2024, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov addressed a range of global issues, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, prospects for Russia’s relations with the United States under President-elect Donald Trump, and the evolving geopolitical landscape in the Middle East and Asia.

Diplomatic Settlement in Ukraine and US-Russia Relations

When asked about the possibility of relaunching talks for a diplomatic resolution in Ukraine following the inauguration of Donald Trump on January 20, Lavrov stated that Russia had not received any official signals regarding peace negotiations. He pointed out that, until Trump’s inauguration, US foreign policy would remain in the hands of the current administration under President Joe Biden. Lavrov also noted that any discussions on Ukraine had not involved direct talks with Russia. While Trump’s camp has floated ideas such as suspending hostilities and pushing responsibility for the confrontation to Europe, Lavrov expressed Russia’s dissatisfaction with these proposals, particularly the suggestion to delay Ukraine’s NATO membership for 20 years.

Lavrov reiterated Russia’s well-known position on Ukraine, as articulated by President Vladimir Putin. He emphasized that Russia remained open to talks, but insisted that any agreements would need to be reliable and legally binding to address the root causes of the conflict. He further remarked that any restoration of political dialogue between Russia and the US would require the US to make the first move, as Washington had severed ties after the onset of Russia’s special military operation in Ukraine.

Ukraine’s NATO Membership and Territorial Integrity

Responding to a question about Ukrainian President Zelensky’s comments acknowledging that the Ukrainian military could not recover lost territory, Lavrov expressed skepticism about Kiev’s public statements. He emphasized that Ukraine’s goal of restoring territorial integrity within the 1991 borders, including the expulsion of Russian troops, remained unchanged. Lavrov noted that despite this, there was no unity within NATO on Ukraine’s membership, which Russia continues to oppose regardless of the territorial issue.

He reaffirmed Russia’s ongoing commitment to ensuring Ukraine remains non-aligned, a key objective of Russia’s special military operation.

Western Influence in Georgia and the Middle East

In response to questions about Western-backed color revolutions along Russia’s borders, Lavrov pointed to the longstanding pattern of interference by the US and its allies in the domestic affairs of sovereign countries. He mentioned Georgia as a prime example, where Washington and Brussels have attempted to influence domestic politics despite the people’s expressed will. He commended Georgia’s authorities for pursuing an independent path, resisting external pressures to destabilize the country, and emphasized that Russia had no intention of interfering in Georgia’s internal matters.

Turning to the Middle East, Lavrov discussed the ongoing turmoil in Syria and the broader region, noting that much of the instability had been caused by the US’s interventionist policies. He argued that Washington’s destructive actions, particularly in Iraq, Libya, and Syria, had exacerbated tensions. Lavrov acknowledged that while Russia had provided assistance to Syria in the form of humanitarian aid and infrastructure rebuilding, the Syrian government had struggled to build a constructive dialogue with its opposition. He emphasized that Russia’s approach would always prioritize solutions that respected the interests of the regional states involved.

North Korea and Western Accusations

Regarding accusations that North Korean military forces were involved in the Ukraine conflict as part of Russia’s military operation, Lavrov quickly dismissed these claims, describing them as falsehoods propagated by the West. He pointed out that NATO forces and mercenaries were openly participating in Ukraine’s combat operations, and that these actions were a far greater escalation than anything Russia was accused of. Lavrov reaffirmed Russia’s ongoing cooperation with North Korea, emphasizing the bilateral relationship under their recently enacted treaty.

Taiwan and US Provocations

Lavrov concluded the interview by addressing the growing tensions in the Taiwan Strait. While he refrained from speculating on the future actions of the Trump administration, Lavrov criticized Washington for its provocations in the region. He condemned the US for undermining its commitments to Beijing on Taiwan, describing these actions as part of a broader strategy to exert military and political pressure on China and destabilize regional security.

Lavrov reaffirmed Russia’s adherence to the One China policy, supporting China’s sovereignty over Taiwan and opposing any form of Taiwanese independence. He reiterated Russia’s commitment to working with China to maintain regional stability, emphasizing that any unilateral attempts to alter the status quo would not be tolerated.

In Conclusion

Minister Lavrov’s comments reflect Russia’s steadfast positions on key international issues, particularly regarding Ukraine, NATO, and its relationship with both the United States and China. His remarks indicate a focus on diplomacy, but also a strong resistance to what Russia sees as Western interference in its sphere of influence. As the world prepares for the potential shifts in global power dynamics, Lavrov’s interview offers insight into Russia’s foreign policy priorities moving into 2025.

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