Russia has begun internal processes to select a new ambassador to the United States, according to Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Speaking with RIA, Lavrov acknowledged the strained relations between Russia and the US but noted that Washington has not suggested severing diplomatic ties. He stressed that as the world’s largest nuclear powers, both nations bear responsibility for global stability, which requires maintaining embassies in each other’s capitals.
Lavrov indicated that if the US remains committed to diplomatic engagement, Russia will soon appoint a new ambassador to replace Anatoly Antonov, who was relieved of his duties by President Vladimir Putin on October 10.
Lavrov commented on US-Russia relations, expressing doubt about positive changes regardless of the US presidential election outcome, given both parties’ “anti-Russian” stance. He also rejected US claims that Russia had interfered in Georgia’s parliamentary elections, dismissing them as baseless.
Addressing recent reports that Ukraine may use Western-supplied long-range weapons to strike Russian territory, Lavrov warned that such actions would openly involve NATO in the conflict. He cautioned that any direct attacks would lead to proportionate Russian responses, referencing the UN Charter’s self-defense provisions.
In other international issues, Lavrov noted that Armenia and Azerbaijan still face difficulties finalizing a peace treaty, while tensions persist in Moldova’s Transnistria region.
On the Gaza crisis, Lavrov highlighted BRICS countries’ unified support for a cease-fire and humanitarian aid, despite US opposition to a related UN Security Council resolution. He expressed concerns over the conflict’s regional escalation, impacting Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Iran, and beyond. Lavrov emphasized BRICS’ continued commitment to a fair resolution of the Palestinian issue, describing it as essential for stability in the Middle East.
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