In a comprehensive annual press conference reviewing 2025, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov positioned Moscow as a steadfast advocate for political solutions to global crises, from Ukraine to Gaza, while delivering pointed criticism of Western powers he accused of undermining peace efforts and fostering a dangerous new world order where "might is right" prevails.
Lavrov reiterated Russia's self-proclaimed commitment to a diplomatic resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, stating that Moscow had "consistently demonstrated goodwill" in line with President Vladimir Putin's policies. He placed the blame for the prolonged crisis squarely on Western nations, alleging that European powers in particular had "repeatedly sabotaged peace agreements and created obstacles to a political settlement". This narrative of Western obstruction has been a consistent theme in Russian diplomacy. While welcoming U.S. President Donald Trump's engagement as the "only Western country prepared to address... the root causes" of the conflict, Lavrov suggested others were "trying in every way to convince the American administration not to negotiate with the Russian Federation".
On the Middle East, Lavrov confirmed Russia had received a draft charter from the United States for the proposed "Board of Peace" initiative on Gaza. While under review, Lavrov emphasized that for any such initiative to be viable, the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state must be its foundation. "When we speak about resolving the Gaza issue, our position remains that the creation of a Palestinian state is essential," he stated, framing this as a long-acknowledged international principle.
Lavrov expressed a broader critique of the contemporary international landscape, arguing that principles foundational to global peace have been sidelined in favor of a justification of force. He described a troubling shift to a "game of 'might is right,'" citing unilateral actions such as the recent U.S. operation in Venezuela. He extended this defense of sovereignty to other regions, warning against external interference in Iran's internal affairs and accusing the European Union of encouraging election manipulation in Armenia. He also framed regional security concerns in stark terms, comparing the strategic importance of Crimea to Russia with that of Greenland to the United States.
Despite the sharp criticisms, Lavrov concluded by reaffirming Russia's readiness to pursue political and diplomatic means to resolve crises. He characterized the Trump administration as one of "pragmatists" who recognize the need to consider other nations' legitimate interests. In a world witnessing "turbulent developments amid the strengthening of multipolarity," Lavrov positioned Russian diplomacy as committed to dialogue and order, even if achieving it requires "an entire historical era".