The Russian Foreign Minister, Serguéi Lavrov, has openly criticized the United States, accusing it of expanding its political influence over several countries. He cautioned that Washington's interests extend beyond Venezuela, Cuba, and Iran.
During a press briefing, highlighted by the Russian state agency TASS, Lavrov condemned what he described as an American strategy aimed at dominating other nations, amidst the current geopolitical tensions.
Referring specifically to Iran, Lavrov mentioned that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, when questioned by a journalist, hinted at potential American governance over Iran. "Just as they have declared their intention to govern Venezuela, they are now attempting a similar approach with Cuba. And likely, this is not where it ends," Lavrov remarked.
The Russian minister's comments come at a time of heightened international tensions, especially following the escalation in the Middle East concerning Iran.
Washington's Foreign Policy Under Scrutiny
Furthermore, Lavrov criticized the stance of the U.S. administration regarding the international system and the role of the United Nations. He pointed to statements by President Donald Trump and other senior U.S. officials that, according to him, reflect a foreign policy driven purely by national interests.
"These leaders," he asserted, "have no qualms about stating they won't be guided by any UN principles, but solely by their own state's interests."
Lavrov argued that the current global crisis is indicative of deeper shifts in the international balance of power. "What is unfolding in the world now is a reflection of profound changes and significant issues in global politics and economics," he stated.
He suggested that the current situation is not merely about recent conflicts but signals a deterioration of the international order established post-World War II.
The Role of the United Nations Amidst the Iran Crisis
Lavrov also addressed the United Nations Security Council's response to the escalation involving Iran. He recalled that Russia and China had urgently called for a council meeting on the same day as the U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran commenced.
In that session, "essential evaluations" of the situation were conducted, according to Lavrov. "Given the circumstances, this is the most we can achieve," he noted.
The Russian Foreign Minister argued that the Security Council's dynamics limit the potential for decisions opposed to Washington's perceived interests. He stated, "The United States, as a permanent member of the Security Council, will not allow decisions that contradict its interests."
Lavrov also pointed out that the other two Western permanent members of the Council, France and the United Kingdom, have tried to maintain some distance from U.S. actions, though he believes they are unlikely to oppose them.
"Overall, both Paris and London, of course, will never interfere with the current actions of the United States," he concluded.
Key Insights Into U.S. and Russia Relations
What countries does Lavrov accuse the U.S. of wanting to control?
Lavrov accuses the U.S. of wanting to control Venezuela, Cuba, and Iran.
How does Lavrov describe the U.S. foreign policy?
Lavrov describes U.S. foreign policy as being driven solely by national interests, disregarding UN principles.
What does Lavrov say about the current global crisis?
Lavrov believes the current global crisis reflects deeper changes and issues in global politics and economics.