Russia's foreign minister Sergei Lavrov has stated that the country harbors no intentions of attacking EU or NATO member states. However, he warned that any acts of aggression directed at Moscow would invoke a decisive response.
In a comprehensive speech to the UN General Assembly, Lavrov expressed concerns over the increasing frequency of threats against Russia from Western nations.
Lavrov also criticized Israel, asserting that there is no justification for the ongoing violence against Palestinians in Gaza following the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023.
He highlighted the dire humanitarian toll, referencing over 65,000 fatalities due to Israeli airstrikes and accused Israel of exacerbating tensions across the Middle East.
Lavrov accused Western powers of undermining diplomatic efforts concerning Iran, particularly after new sanctions came into effect this past Sunday following a failed attempt by Moscow and Beijing to delay their implementation.
In comments addressing European tensions, he refuted the idea that Russia was planning an offensive against NATO and EU nations, affirming that such characterizations are unfounded.
The speech also pointed to allegations of Russian military incursions in neighboring airspaces as a precursor for renewed diplomatic negotiations with the US, showcasing the complexities of international relations under the prevailing geopolitical climate.
