Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that Russia does not plan to attack NATO or EU member states but cautioned that any aggression towards Russia would elicit a “decisive response.” In a speech at the UN General Assembly, Lavrov remarked that threats against Russia from Western nations are increasingly frequent.
He also addressed the situation in Israel and Gaza, condemning the recent attacks by Hamas while asserting there is “no justification” for the deaths of Palestinians in Gaza or plans to annex the West Bank. Reports indicate significant casualties from Israeli strikes, with over 65,900 fatalities according to the Hamas-run health ministry, alongside the deaths of about 1,200 people and 251 hostages from the October 7 attacks.
Lavrov criticized Israeli military actions in the Middle East, suggesting they could destabilize the region. He noted that Israel has justified strikes on other regional countries as part of its operations against Hamas.
On Iran, he accused Western powers of undermining diplomatic efforts following a failed initiative led by Russia and China to postpone the reimposition of sanctions. These sanctions are scheduled to take effect.
Regarding tensions in Europe, Lavrov mentioned that accusations against Russia concerning its supposed plans to attack NATO and the EU are escalating. He reiterated that Russia has no such intentions and that any aggression would be met with force.
Moscow has denied involvement in incidents where drones allegedly flew over Danish airports, with Danish authorities suggesting the actions were executed by a “professional actor.” Additionally, Estonia has accused Russia of airspace violations, while NATO performed air defense operations in Poland following drone incursions.
Lavrov also reflected on US-Russian relations, acknowledging a desire from the current US administration for pragmatic cooperation to address the Ukrainian crisis. He further questioned the timing of some Western countries’ recognition of a Palestinian state, suggesting a lack of urgency in their previous stance.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c5ygjv0r2myo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss