Russian Foreign Minister Takes Stand Against US Proposal, Declares ‘No Talks’ Amid Escalating Tensions

Following the intensifying hostilities between the United States and Russia, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov flatly rejected an American offer to resume talks on nuclear arms reduction. Such discussions, according to Lavrov, were unthinkable, mainly because of what he saw as American military support for Ukraine.

Photo from Google

Lavrov’s Criticism and Diplomatic Standoff

During his annual news conference, Lavrov criticized the West for allegedly promoting increased Ukrainian strikes on Russian territory and emphasized Russia’s determination to achieve its objectives in the ongoing conflict, despite perceived support for Kyiv from Western powers.

Addressing the U.S. proposal to reinstate talks on nuclear arms control, Lavrov condemned the idea as “unacceptable,” maintaining that Moscow had already outlined its position in a diplomatic letter issued the previous month.

He contended that any such negotiations should be contingent upon Washington revising its current policy towards Russia. Lavrov’s stance contradicted White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan’s previous remarks, expressing the Biden administration’s willingness to engage in unconditional talks with Russia regarding nuclear arms control, despite strained bilateral relations.

READ ALSO: Iran’s Growing Military Engagement Raises Questions Amid Escalating Middle East Conflict

Lavrov’s Accusations and Nuclear Arms Control Dilemma

Lavrov accused the U.S. of pursuing the revival of nuclear talks not in earnest, but rather with the ulterior motive of reinstating inspections of Russia’s nuclear weapons facilities.

He derided these demands as “indecent” and cynical, particularly in light of what he perceived as Ukraine’s attacks on Russian nuclear-capable bomber bases during the conflict.

Lavrov described the U.S.’s proposition to resume nuclear arms dialogue as a paradox, characterizing it as essentially declaring Russia an enemy while simultaneously expressing a readiness to discuss examining its strategic nuclear arsenal.

READ ALSO: Ukraine Crisis: Western Hesitation And Russian Ambitions Heighten Global Fears