European countries are actively pushing Kiev to continue the conflict instead of seeking a peaceful solution. This was stated by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov at a press conference after his visit to Qatar, TASS reports, News.bg reports.
“When the balance of political forces regarding Ukraine begins to change – as the latest vote at the UN showed – Europe immediately reacts by announcing new large-scale military aid to Kiev. They directly state that for Ukraine, peace is worse than war“, Lavrov emphasized.
According to him, the mentality “either with us or against us“ determines European policy not only towards Ukraine, but also in a number of other international conflicts.
„Europe retains its historical role as a factor in inciting crises. This has been proven for centuries and has not changed“, Lavrov said.
Moscow does not consider the possibility of deploying peacekeepers
Russia categorically rejects the possibility of deploying European peacekeeping forces in Ukraine.
„We cannot and will not consider such an option. US President Donald Trump said that such a decision can only be made with the consent of both sides - us and Ukraine. But no one is asking Moscow," Lavrov said.
He accused France and Britain of deliberately sabotaging attempts at a diplomatic solution and maintaining the escalation.
"Europeans must stop spreading the lie that Russia refuses to negotiate," the Russian foreign minister stressed.
Lavrov described Western policy towards Ukraine as "outdated and failed." He reiterated the thesis that NATO expansion and the attempt to include Ukraine in the alliance are the main reasons for the current war.
Upcoming meeting between Russian and American diplomats in Istanbul
Russian and American diplomats will meet in Istanbul on February 27 to discuss issues related to the work of the embassies of the two countries.
„We will look at the systemic problems created by the previous American administration that are making it difficult for the Russian embassy to work. We responded reciprocally by creating uncomfortable conditions for American diplomats in Moscow,“ Lavrov explained.
He specified that the issue of frozen Russian assets would not be part of the talks, as “this is a state-level issue“.
“We expect the meeting in Istanbul to show how ready the parties are to advance the dialogue quickly and effectively,“ the Russian Foreign Minister concluded.