The Russian news agency reported today that Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that China may organize a peace conference that includes Russia and Ukraine. Lavrov noted that such a step would complement Beijing's ongoing efforts to resolve the Ukrainian crisis. In an interview with the agency, he added, "We agree with China's position that it is necessary to address the root causes of the conflict first and to protect the legal interests of all parties, with subsequent agreements based on the principle of equal and indivisible security."
He further emphasized, "Let me reiterate that this requires consideration of the facts on the ground, which reflect the will of those living there." Russia has repeatedly called for talks on the condition that Kyiv and the West recognize the territorial gains it has made in Ukraine, which Kyiv refuses.
Lavrov criticized the United States for its support of Ukraine, stating that Washington has become "partner in the crimes of the Kyiv regime." He also mentioned that Russia views the planning to supply Ukraine with nuclear-capable F-16 fighters as a "significant move" by NATO. He added, "They are trying to tell us that the United States and NATO will not be stopped by anything in Ukraine."
He continued, "However, we hope that the ongoing exercises now between Russia and Belarus on the use of non-strategic nuclear weapons will bring our adversaries to their senses by reminding them of the catastrophic consequences of further nuclear escalation." Lavrov stated that the United States is also working in the Middle East to "fan the flames of conflict."
