Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said that European leadership is acting in line with external policies rather than the interests of its own people, as he outlined Moscow’s views on global security, the Ukraine conflict, NATO, and mounting crises in the Middle East.
Speaking at the Antalya Diplomatic Forum, Lavrov said the conflict in Ukraine did not emerge suddenly but was the result of years of political decisions. He identified NATO expansion as a central cause, adding that Russia had repeatedly proposed alternative security arrangements to Western countries, which were consistently ignored.
Criticism of Western ‘Rules-Based Order’
Lavrov criticised what he described as the Western-led rules-based international order, arguing that it does not operate on uniform principles. He said that at times the right to self-determination is emphasised, while in other cases territorial integrity is prioritised, depending on political convenience. This inconsistency, he claimed, has weakened the credibility of international law.
He further alleged that Ukraine is being used as a tool against Russia and said European leaders are aligning with policies shaped outside the continent rather than reflecting public opinion at home.
Middle East, Energy Routes, and Global Competition
Turning to the Middle East, Lavrov said growing attempts to control energy resources and strategic trade routes are fuelling regional instability. He referred to Venezuela and other regions, claiming that major powers are intensifying efforts to expand influence over critical resources amid a global energy crisis.
Shift Toward a Multipolar World
Lavrov said the world is entering a new era marked by the decline of unipolar dominance and the rise of a multipolar global order. He pointed to BRICS and other regional alliances as evidence of this transition, noting that power will no longer be concentrated in one or two states.
Russia–China Relations
On relations with Beijing, Lavrov described ties between Russia and China as balanced, stable, and based on mutual trust. He said their partnership is stronger in nature than traditional military alliances and not directed against third parties.
Lavrov concluded that the transformation of the global system will be a long and complex process, warning that international politics may become more unstable and competitive in the years ahead.
His remarks come as the Ukraine war, NATO policies, and ongoing energy and security crises continue to place significant strain on global diplomacy and international relations.
