Lavrov: Previous Operations Indicate the Duration of the West's Pursuit of Its Goals in Ukraine

01 September 2023

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has suggested that the West's involvement in Ukraine could be compared to its operations in Iraq and Afghanistan in terms of duration. During a meeting with students and professors at MGIMO, Lavrov mentioned statements by Western politicians pledging support to Ukraine "for as long as it takes." He referred to historical examples, such as the extended operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, to imply that the West's goals in Ukraine may take considerable time to achieve.

 

Lavrov also discussed the unpredictability of establishing a more just and sustainable world order, emphasizing the role of personalities in history. He mentioned the concept of a "green transition" pursued by the European Union and criticized their inconsistency in reducing investments in hydrocarbon production and abandoning nuclear power. Lavrov highlighted the challenges facing African countries regarding green transition and the promises made by the West to provide financial assistance.

 

In the context of multipolarity, Lavrov noted that Western countries are gradually hearing voices advocating compromises and agreements that consider the security and economic interests of all states. He stressed the need to abandon aggressive slogans and diktats in foreign policy, as they often lead to conflicts and wars.

 

Lavrov concluded by stating that the movement toward multipolarity in the world is an unstoppable and objective course of history. He acknowledged that the era of Western dominance, which lasted about 500 years, is coming to an end.


Sergey Lavrov, the Russian Foreign Minister, sees the process of establishing a more sustainable world order as having deep historical roots. He noted that this process reflects an objective reality, with new centers of power emerging that no longer want to play a passive role in international cooperation and refuse to live at the expense of others. Lavrov cited the stance of African countries as an example of nations no longer willing to merely supply raw materials for the benefit of other states.

 

While Lavrov expressed Russia's willingness to support the movement toward multipolarity, he also acknowledged the possibility that some individuals or groups may come to power with intentions that diverge from historical trends. This statement underlines the dynamic and complex nature of global geopolitics, where different actors and ideologies can influence the direction of international relations.

 

 

GSV "Russia - Islamic World"

Photo: Russian Foreign Ministry

Based on materials from TASS