China News Agency, Moscow, March 18 (Reporter Tian Bing) Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov said in an exclusive interview with "Russia Today" (RT) on the 18th that Russia does not reject mutually beneficial cooperation with the West, but no longer believes that the West is reliable. Partner.
Lavrov said that Russia's special military operation against Ukraine is aimed at eliminating security threats to Russia.
Russia does not allow the West to continue to send weapons to Ukraine. Russia has clearly stated its position that any weapons transported into Ukraine will become a legitimate target.
He said that under an intergovernmental agreement, Soviet- and Russian-made missile defense systems in the possession of some NATO countries cannot be transferred to third countries.
Lavrov also mentioned that Russia and Ukraine share common culture, history and tradition. He hopes that after the current abnormal situation is over, everything will gradually return to the original track.
"But it will be a process, it will not happen overnight," Ukraine needs time to get rid of the negative influence of the West.
Lavrov said more than 5,000 Russians had been sanctioned, a record.
The Western sanctions against Russia are unprecedented and will continue. "This sanctions pressure will continue. They are threatening a fifth wave of sanctions, and maybe another wave will follow, but we are used to it."
What's happening around Ukraine is "the essence of the West's strategy towards Russia," which is to marginalize Russia, contain and end Russia's development, and "sanctions only make Russia stronger."
When talking about relations with the United States and the West, Lavrov pointed out that the United States is trying to restore a unipolar world, "that is not a 'global village', but an 'American village', maybe an American salon where everyone can only follow the strongest dance."
He argues that Europe has effectively abandoned attempts to maintain strategic autonomy.
Lavrov said, "We did not close the door of Western countries, but they closed our door." The actions of Western countries broke Russia's illusion of relying on Western countries. Now Russia can only rely on itself and those who continue to stand by its side. Allies, this is Russia's main conclusion in the current situation.
Lavrov also said that Russia does not reject mutually beneficial cooperation with the West, but no longer believes that the West is a reliable partner.
“When they come to their senses and open the door again, we will look at the proposed cooperation projects, we will work with them, but we are very aware that they are not reliable long-term allies.” Meanwhile, Russia remains ready to work with all Countries willing to cooperate on the basis of equality, mutual respect and seeking a balance of interests.
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