Statements from EU officials or official EU documents

Lavrov Claims France Proposed Dialogue with Russia on Ukraine Without Kyiv Involvement Amid US Policy to Eliminate Competitors

Dec 26, 2024, 09:19 AM

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that France has proposed multiple times, through closed channels, to establish a dialogue with Russia regarding Ukraine without the involvement of Kyiv. This assertion highlights a contrast between France's private overtures and its public stance on the conflict. Lavrov emphasized that the West, particularly the United States, is attempting to eliminate competitors like Russia and China, describing these actions as 'crystal clear.' He also noted that the West's diplomatic approach is characterized by threats and sanctions. Lavrov pointed out that despite these pressures, the EU has acknowledged its failure to isolate Russia, as indicated by former EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell. He concluded that the world is shifting towards a multipolar structure, which will require Western nations to adapt to a loss of dominance.