News - Lavrov: EU Escalating Ukraine Tensions

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has criticized the European Union for blocking peace efforts related to the Ukraine conflict and accused the bloc of preparing for war with Russia. In a recent interview with TASS, Lavrov emphasized the EU's significant financial and military support for Ukraine, claiming that nearly all European countries are providing resources to Kiev despite Russia controlling battlefield strategies. Lavrov argued that the EU has become a major obstacle to peace since a new U.S. administration came into power, as demonstrated by Europe's willingness to confront Russia militarily. He linked the EU's hostile stance towards Russia to 2014 when the Ukraine crisis intensified, stating that Brussels promoted anti-Russian rhetoric and a militaristic mindset across Europe. According to Lavrov, key European leaders have politically invested in strategically defeating Russia and are committed to these goals despite potential risks. The minister also addressed Western media speculation about a possible Russian attack on NATO, flatly dismissing such ideas and warning that any aggressive action against Russia would prompt a devastating counter-action. These comments come amidst ongoing EU efforts to guide discussions on resolving the Ukraine conflict, with European representatives asserting that any proposal involving major concessions from Ukraine is unacceptable. Russia has criticized EU involvement in peace talks, arguing it hinders the path to peace. Furthermore, Moscow has condemned the EU’s attempts to militarize its economy under the pretext of containing Russia.