Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov Criticizes Zelenskyy’s Peace Plan at Riyadh Meeting
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – On September 9, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov spoke at the 7th Russia-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Ministerial Meeting for Strategic Dialogue. Lavrov stated that Moscow has never taken Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s peace formula seriously. He argued that the West’s support for Zelenskyy’s plan indicates a lack of desire for honest agreements.
Lavrov’s Criticism of Zelenskyy’s Peace Formula
Lavrov noted that the ideas in Zelenskyy’s formula often begin with calls to end military operations and follow international law. However, he emphasized that international law encompasses more than just these aspects. Lavrov praised India and Brazil’s efforts to help resolve the conflict.
Response to Attacks in Kursk Region
When asked about Russia’s refusal to hold talks with Ukraine after attacks in the Kursk region, Lavrov referred to President Vladimir Putin’s statement at the Eastern Economic Forum. Putin described the liberation of the Kursk region and other areas as a sacred duty of the Russian Armed Forces.
Western Influence and Peace Initiatives
Lavrov criticized the West for sticking to Zelenskyy’s peace formula, calling it an ultimatum. He claimed that the West aims to weaken Russia and declare a strategic defeat. Lavrov also mentioned that Zelenskyy’s 10-point peace formula, presented at the G20 Summit in 2022, includes nuclear safety, food security, and a tribunal for alleged Russian war crimes.
Human Rights and Cultural Issues
Lavrov stressed that Russia wants people connected to Russian culture, language, history, and religion to be treated as human beings under international law. He criticized the Ukrainian government for outlawing the Russian language and banning the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.
Discussions with India and Brazil
Lavrov discussed the conflict with his counterparts from India and Brazil, highlighting the importance of addressing the rights of Russian speakers. He appreciated the global security initiative by Chinese President Xi Jinping, which focuses on analyzing conflicts from their root causes.
Meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar of India met with Lavrov on the sidelines of the GCC meeting. Jaishankar described the conversation as useful in a post on X.
Doubts Revealed
Sergey Lavrov -: Sergey Lavrov is the Foreign Minister of Russia. He is like the main person in charge of Russia’s relationships with other countries.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy -: Volodymyr Zelenskyy is the President of Ukraine. He is the leader of the country and makes important decisions for Ukraine.
Riyadh -: Riyadh is the capital city of Saudi Arabia. It’s a big city where important meetings often take place.
7th Russia-Gulf Cooperation Council Ministerial Meeting -: This is a meeting where leaders from Russia and countries in the Gulf region (like Saudi Arabia, UAE) come together to discuss important issues.
West -: In this context, ‘the West’ usually means countries like the United States and those in Western Europe. They often have similar political views and work together on international issues.
India and Brazil -: India and Brazil are two big countries that are trying to help solve the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. They are known for being neutral and trying to bring peace.
Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar -: S. Jaishankar is the person in charge of India’s relationships with other countries. He talks to leaders from other nations to keep good relations and solve problems.
