MOSCOW (Shahid Ghuman) - Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, while presenting a review of Russia’s diplomatic performance in 2025 during his annual press conference in Moscow, said that Russia prioritises diplomatic and political approaches to resolving multiple global conflicts, including the Ukraine crisis, but noted that Western involvement has at times undermined peace efforts.
Lavrov said Russia had consistently demonstrated goodwill in efforts to end the Ukraine conflict, in line with the policies of President Vladimir Putin.
However, he alleged that Western countries — particularly European powers — had repeatedly sabotaged peace agreements and created obstacles to a political settlement of the Russia-Ukraine confrontation.
He added that the current global landscape is increasingly moving towards a justification of the use of force, while principles that were once regarded as the foundation of global peace have been pushed aside.
Expressing deep concern over the situation in Iran, Lavrov said that certain statements and actions by Western countries had raised fears of foreign interference in Iran’s internal affairs.
He stressed that such issues must be addressed in accordance with international law and with a view to maintaining regional stability.
On the issue of Palestine and Gaza, Lavrov said proposals such as the “Board of Peace” (Peace Council) reportedly being put forward by the United States were under review in efforts to address the situation in Gaza.
He emphasised that the establishment of a Palestinian state must be considered the cornerstone of any viable solution.
“When we speak about resolving the Gaza issue, our position remains that the creation of a Palestinian state is essential — a principle that has been repeatedly acknowledged by the international community,” Lavrov said.
Reiterating Russia’s commitment to peace and diplomacy, Lavrov said Moscow remains ready to pursue political and diplomatic means to prevent violence and resolve crises, including those in Ukraine, Iran and the Middle East, stressing that conflicts cannot be addressed through military means alone.