The world watches with growing concern as tensions escalate in the Middle East. Twenty days ago, the United States and Israel launched a military operation against Iran, prompting a firm response from Russia in support of the Islamic Republic. Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov insists Russia’s position isn’t simply defending an ally, but upholding international law – a principle he believes many, including France, historically claim to champion.
Lavrov paints a stark picture of repeated intervention in the region, citing the devastating consequences in Iraq, Syria, and Libya. He argues that the current aggression against Iran mirrors a dangerous pattern: attacks launched during ongoing negotiations, raising serious questions about the motives of US negotiators. The cold-blooded killing of Iranian leaders, openly discussed with a chilling bravado, is described as cynical behavior.
Russia advocates for the interests of all regional players, including its partners in the Gulf Cooperation Council, who see a double standard at play. They perceive a war waged by the US and Israel against Iran, while simultaneously being accused of unprovoked attacks by Iran itself. Lavrov points to UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ call for the US and Israel to halt the war as a crucial first step towards de-escalation.
Accusations of Russian intelligence support for Iran are met with a measured response. Lavrov acknowledges close relations and military-technical cooperation, but dismisses claims of providing specific targeting information. He points out the readily available coordinates of US bases in the region, suggesting Iran’s actions are a logical consequence of the aggression. He highlights warnings from GCC partners to the US, urging restraint before launching this “reckless venture.”
The question of economic benefit to Russia is addressed directly. Lavrov emphasizes that Russia doesn’t seek to profit from conflict, but rather opposes actions that destabilize global markets and drive up prices. He challenges the narrative of US dominance in energy markets, citing examples like Venezuela and the US’s stated desire to control the Strait of Hormuz. He draws a parallel to the Nord Stream pipeline explosions, criticizing the lack of condemnation and the US’s apparent interest in taking control of the infrastructure.
Lavrov vehemently rejects accusations of seeking unlawful gain, contrasting Russia’s commitment to honoring obligations with the EU’s decision to unilaterally tear up contracts. He points to US sanctions as illegitimate, highlighting the hypocrisy of allowing oil already at sea to be sold while imposing restrictions. He underscores that for Russia and its reliable partners, these sanctions simply do not exist.
The conversation shifts to Ukraine, where Lavrov meticulously outlines Russia’s perspective. He emphasizes that Russia recognized Ukraine based on its 1991 declaration of independence as a neutral, non-nuclear state – a commitment he believes was betrayed by the 2014 coup and subsequent NATO expansion. He accuses France, Germany, and Poland of failing to uphold agreements guaranteeing a government of national unity and new elections.
The Minsk agreements, approved by the UN Security Council, are presented as a failed attempt at peace, deliberately undermined by Western powers who, according to Lavrov, were simply “buying time” to arm Ukraine. He details the systematic suppression of Russian language and culture in Ukraine, highlighting the discriminatory laws passed before the conflict began. He contrasts this with Iran’s respect for diverse languages and religions.
Lavrov stresses that the current crisis stems from a violation of international obligations by Ukraine and its Western patrons, while Iran has not broken any agreements. He recalls Russia’s 2021 proposal for security guarantees, dismissed by the US and NATO, ultimately leading to the current situation. He argues that France and Germany were fully aware of the risks they were taking by steering matters towards a crisis.
The discussion turns to civilian casualties and accusations of Russian aggression. Lavrov reiterates that Russia does not target civilian infrastructure, emphasizing that all targets are linked to military operations. He challenges the media to conduct independent investigations, citing the lack of concrete evidence in cases like Bucha, where the identities of the alleged victims remain unconfirmed. He calls for a balanced and responsible approach to reporting.
He addresses concerns about France’s role, questioning whether it is now an adversary. While acknowledging a past partnership, he points to the EU’s declaration of a desire for Russia’s “strategic defeat” as a clear indication of a changed relationship. He criticizes France’s restrictions on Russian media, contrasting it with accusations of hybrid warfare.
Regarding a reported drone attack on the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, Lavrov maintains Russia does not target civilian vessels. He draws a parallel to a similar incident in Estonia, where a Ukrainian drone was later identified as the culprit. He expresses hope for reason to prevail in the Strait of Hormuz and urges the US and Israel to halt their aggression against Iran.
Finally, Lavrov addresses questions about Russia’s relationship with Donald Trump and the upcoming French elections. He emphasizes the importance of concrete actions over rhetoric, noting ongoing US efforts to finalize agreements reached during the Trump-Putin summit in Alaska. He concludes by stating Russia wishes success to whomever the French people choose, and dismisses questions about nostalgia for the Soviet Union as a matter of historical remembrance, no different than France’s own reverence for its revolutionary past.
