The country's presidency has confirmed that the president of Russia won't be present at a summit in South Africa next month. The declaration of war on Russia follows the leader of South Africa's statement that any attempt to detain Vladimir Putin would constitute a declaration of war.

BRICS Summit 2023: Russian President Putin to not go to South Africa for the Summit

BRICS Summit 2023: FM Lavrov to represent Russia at the Summit

<p>Not long after the NATO summit in Lithuania wrapped up, the Russian Foreign Ministry expressed its dismay at it, stating that the Western alliance was reverting to "Cold War schemes".</p>

<p>The ministry also said that Kremlin was prepared to counter any threats using "all means",&nbsp;reported Reuters on Wednesday. This comes as the summit, held in Lithuania, concluded with the United States and its allies providing Ukraine with increased security assurances against Moscow's aggression.</p>

<h2><strong>Russian ministry's response to the summit</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement issued late on Wednesday, the Russian Foreign Ministry indicated that it would carefully analyse the outcomes of the Vilnius Summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also affirmed that Russia would respond by utilising all available means considering the challenges and threats.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alarming-warning-from-who-bird-flu-poses-increased-risk-of-adapting-to-humans-614852">Alarming warning from WHO: Bird flu poses increased risk of adapting to humans</a></p>

<p>"The results of the Vilnius Summit will be carefully analysed. Taking into account the challenges and threats to Russia's security and interests that have been identified, we will respond in a timely and appropriate manner, using all means and methods at our disposal," the ministry statement read.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ministry also criticised NATO's "inability to adapt to the new geopolitical situation",&nbsp;alleging that the alliance was progressively lowering the threshold for the use of force and exacerbating political and military tensions.</p>

<h2><strong>Russian ministry accuses NATO of escalation</strong></h2>

<p>The Russian ministry claimed that NATO's actions aimed to protract the conflict in Ukraine, alleging that the alliance had pledged to supply the Ukrainian regime with increasingly advanced and long-range weapons. This course of action, according to the ministry, was intended to prolong the conflict until exhaustion.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-backs-pakistans-resolution-at-un-condemning-quran-burning-protests-614841">India backs Pakistan’s resolution at UN condemning Quran burning protests</a></p>

<p>Additionally, the ministry stated its intent to strengthen the country's military and defence system, building upon the decisions already made.</p>

<h2><strong>Biden's remarks and NATO's support for Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>On the same day, US President Joe Biden condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing him of having a "craven lust for land and power." Biden praised NATO's unity and its support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.</p>

<h2><strong>Sweden's NATO membership bid&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>One of the key takeaways from the recently held NATO summit was the green light to the potential inclusion of Sweden as the newest member of the military alliance.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Kenya on the boil as protests erupt against tax hikes</strong></p>

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<p>In a major breakthrough, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan unexpectedly opened doors for Sweden's accession to NATO by approving to ratify its membership bid, a move which seemed very hard to achieve earlier. However, there is no timeline given as to when Ukraine will become part of NATO as the leaders said it is not possible as long as the war continues.&nbsp;</p>

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Not long after the NATO summit in Lithuania wrapped up, the Russian Foreign Ministry expressed its dismay at it, stating that the Western alliance was reverting to "Cold War schemes".

Not long after the NATO summit in Lithuania wrapped up, the Russian Foreign Ministry expressed its dismay at it, stating that the Western alliance was reverting to "Cold War schemes". The ministry also said that Kremlin was prepared to counter any threats using "all means", reported Reuters on Wednesday. This comes as the summit, held in Lithuania, concluded with the United States and its allies providing Ukraine with increased security assurances against Moscow's aggression. Russian ministry's response to the summit In a statement issued late on Wednesday, the Russian Foreign Ministry indicated that it would carefully analyse the outcomes of the Vilnius Summit. It also affirmed that Russia would respond by utilising all available means considering the challenges and threats. Also Read | Alarming warning from WHO: Bird flu poses increased risk of adapting to humans "The results of the Vilnius Summit will be carefully analysed. Taking into account the challenges and threats to Russia's security and interests that have been identified, we will respond in a timely and appropriate manner, using all means and methods at our disposal," the ministry statement read. The ministry also criticised NATO's "inability to adapt to the new geopolitical situation", alleging that the alliance was progressively lowering the threshold for the use of force and exacerbating political and military tensions. Russian ministry accuses NATO of escalation The Russian ministry claimed that NATO's actions aimed to protract the conflict in Ukraine, alleging that the alliance had pledged to supply the Ukrainian regime with increasingly advanced and long-range weapons. This course of action, according to the ministry, was intended to prolong the conflict until exhaustion. Also Read | India backs Pakistan’s resolution at UN condemning Quran burning protests Additionally, the ministry stated its intent to strengthen the country's military and defence system, building upon the decisions already made. Biden's remarks and NATO's support for Ukraine On the same day, US President Joe Biden condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing him of having a "craven lust for land and power." Biden praised NATO's unity and its support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression. Sweden's NATO membership bid One of the key takeaways from the recently held NATO summit was the green light to the potential inclusion of Sweden as the newest member of the military alliance. Watch | Kenya on the boil as protests erupt against tax hikes × In a major breakthrough, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan unexpectedly opened doors for Sweden's accession to NATO by approving to ratify its membership bid, a move which seemed very hard to achieve earlier. However, there is no timeline given as to when Ukraine will become part of NATO as the leaders said it is not possible as long as the war continues. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

NATO reviving 'Cold War schemes', Kremlin vows to employ 'all means' in response: Russia

The military junta of Mali reached a deal with Russia to deploy troops from the Wagner group just days before the United Nations Security Council voted to end its peacekeeping mission in Mali. Relations between Mali and the U.N. have been deteriorating ever since the military regime took power in a coup in 2020. The United Nations multi-dimensional integrated stabilisation mission is known as "minusima," and the Malian government declared it a failure and requested for its termination last week.

Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov: Unstinting support to Mali

<p>Iran&nbsp;will be formally approved as a member of the regional&nbsp;Shanghai&nbsp;Cooperation Organisation with&nbsp;China, Russia and Central Asian countries, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Friday.</p>

<p>"At the meeting of heads of state on July 4, the full membership of&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;will be approved," Lavrov said at the opening of an SCO centre in Moscow.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-group-not-disbanded-yet-recruitment-continues-across-russia-report-610443">Wagner Group not disbanded yet, recruitment continues across Russia: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Iran&nbsp;has intensified its diplomacy with friends and foes alike in recent months, seeking to reduce its isolation, improve its economy and project strength.</p>

<p>SCO membership was already on the cards and&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;is also hoping to be quickly accepted into another grouping that excludes Western countries -- the BRICS group with Brazil, Russia, India,&nbsp;China&nbsp;and South Africa.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia's missing military generals | What happened to 'General Armageddon'?</strong></p>

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<p>The SCO, which has its headquarters in&nbsp;China, is a diplomatic organisation with eight members, including India and Pakistan.</p>

<p>Kremlin ally Belarus is also applying to&nbsp;join, and Lavrov said Friday that next week's virtual summit would "begin the procedure" for that membership to go ahead.</p>

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Iran will be formally approved as a member of the regional Shanghai Cooperation Organisation with China, Russia and Central Asian countries, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Friday.

Iran will be formally approved as a member of the regional Shanghai Cooperation Organisation with China, Russia and Central Asian countries, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Friday. "At the meeting of heads of state on July 4, the full membership of Iran will be approved," Lavrov said at the opening of an SCO centre in Moscow. Also read: Wagner Group not disbanded yet, recruitment continues across Russia: Report Iran has intensified its diplomacy with friends and foes alike in recent months, seeking to reduce its isolation, improve its economy and project strength. SCO membership was already on the cards and Iran is also hoping to be quickly accepted into another grouping that excludes Western countries -- the BRICS group with Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. Watch: Russia's missing military generals | What happened to 'General Armageddon'? × The SCO, which has its headquarters in China, is a diplomatic organisation with eight members, including India and Pakistan. Kremlin ally Belarus is also applying to join, and Lavrov said Friday that next week's virtual summit would "begin the procedure" for that membership to go ahead. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Iran to join SCO next week: Lavrov

<p>Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reportedly told China’s special envoy Li Hui on Friday that there were significant challenges hindering the resumption of peace talks in Ukraine.</p>

<p>A statement issued by Russia’s foreign ministry read, “The Russian foreign minister reaffirmed Moscow's commitment to a political-diplomatic resolution of the conflict, noting the serious obstacles to the resumption of peace talks created by the Ukrainian side and its Western mentors.”</p>

<h2><strong>Lavrov lauds China’s “balanced” position</strong></h2>

<p>During the meeting, Lavrov commended China for its "balanced" stance on the Ukraine question. China has shied away from criticising Russia publicly for its invasion of Ukraine; however, it has also tried to reaffirm its partnership with European nations in a bid to strike a fine balance between the two warring sides.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia's Lavrov says G7 is bent on "double containment" of Russia and China</strong></p>

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<p>The Russian Foreign Ministry stated that both parties expressed their willingness to strengthen Russian-Chinese cooperation in foreign policy, with the common objective of preserving peace and stability in the region and globally.</p>

<h2><strong>China urging the West to offer Russia concession</strong></h2>

<p>Li's visit to Moscow followed his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv earlier this month. According to The Wall Street Journal, Li has been engaging with European governments to encourage them to sign a peace deal for the war in Ukraine that would grant Moscow possession of the territories it currently occupies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Western officials interviewed by the WSJ expressed scepticism about the feasibility of an immediate ceasefire, suggesting that China's focus appears to be ensuring Russia's success rather than acting as an impartial mediator in negotiations.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-why-is-russia-sending-nuclear-arms-to-belarus-596926"><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Why is Russia sending nuclear arms to Belarus?</strong></a></p>

<p>China had previously proposed a 12-point plan in February to resolve the crisis in Ukraine. Nonetheless, Western powers rejected the proposals and raised concerns about China's growing alignment with Moscow. Li acknowledged that there is no quick solution to the crisis, highlighting the complexity of the situation.<br />
Li said last week that there is "no panacea to resolve the crisis."</p>

<h2><strong>Russia-China growing closer</strong></h2>

<p>Recently, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing to sign a series of trade agreements, underscoring the strengthening economic ties between the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, China and Russia have drawn closer in a partnership that serves as a diplomatic and economic bulwark against the West. President Xi's visit to Moscow in March marked the initiation of a "new era" in the bilateral relationship, according to his statement.</p>

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Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reportedly told China’s special envoy Li Hui on Friday that there were significant challenges hindering the resumption of peace talks in Ukraine.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reportedly told China’s special envoy Li Hui on Friday that there were significant challenges hindering the resumption of peace talks in Ukraine. A statement issued by Russia’s foreign ministry read, “The Russian foreign minister reaffirmed Moscow's commitment to a political-diplomatic resolution of the conflict, noting the serious obstacles to the resumption of peace talks created by the Ukrainian side and its Western mentors.” Lavrov lauds China’s “balanced” position During the meeting, Lavrov commended China for its "balanced" stance on the Ukraine question. China has shied away from criticising Russia publicly for its invasion of Ukraine; however, it has also tried to reaffirm its partnership with European nations in a bid to strike a fine balance between the two warring sides. Watch: Russia's Lavrov says G7 is bent on "double containment" of Russia and China × The Russian Foreign Ministry stated that both parties expressed their willingness to strengthen Russian-Chinese cooperation in foreign policy, with the common objective of preserving peace and stability in the region and globally. China urging the West to offer Russia concession Li's visit to Moscow followed his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv earlier this month. According to The Wall Street Journal, Li has been engaging with European governments to encourage them to sign a peace deal for the war in Ukraine that would grant Moscow possession of the territories it currently occupies. However, Western officials interviewed by the WSJ expressed scepticism about the feasibility of an immediate ceasefire, suggesting that China's focus appears to be ensuring Russia's success rather than acting as an impartial mediator in negotiations. Also Read | Russia-Ukraine war: Why is Russia sending nuclear arms to Belarus? China had previously proposed a 12-point plan in February to resolve the crisis in Ukraine. Nonetheless, Western powers rejected the proposals and raised concerns about China's growing alignment with Moscow. Li acknowledged that there is no quick solution to the crisis, highlighting the complexity of the situation. Li said last week that there is "no panacea to resolve the crisis." Russia-China growing closer Recently, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing to sign a series of trade agreements, underscoring the strengthening economic ties between the two countries. Since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, China and Russia have drawn closer in a partnership that serves as a diplomatic and economic bulwark against the West. President Xi's visit to Moscow in March marked the initiation of a "new era" in the bilateral relationship, according to his statement. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine and West causing “serious obstacles” to peace, Russia’s Lavrov tells China

<p>Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of G20 meet were "constructive" but that the US said nothing new. Both leaders met during the G20 foreign ministers' meeting in India last week. Russia and US are at two opposite ends of political manoeuvres especially after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lavrov was speaking during an interview on Russian state TV. He said that he spoke with Blinken for 10 minutes and both of them discussed nuclear arms issues and the conflict in Ukraine. This was the first meeting between the two leaders since the Russian invasion.</p>

<p>"We spoke constructively, without emotions, we shook hands," Lavrov said.</p>

<p>"Everything I heard was a position that has already been expressed and underlined in public many times before. I gave my honest, detailed assessment about the New START treaty, and why we saw it necessary to suspend it," he said.</p>

<p>Last month, Russian President Vladimir Putin suspended Russian participation in the new START nuclear arms treaty. He accused the US of trying to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia in the Ukraine conflict.<br />
<br />
Russia said on Friday it was still in contact with Washington over the treaty, but held out little prospect of returning to it.</p>

<p>Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24 last year. After sustained gains in the first months of the conflict, Russian forces had to retreat in face of Ukrainian counter-offensive. Russian&nbsp;forces are currently trying very hard to capture the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of G20 meet were "constructive" but that the US said nothing new.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of G20 meet were "constructive" but that the US said nothing new. Both leaders met during the G20 foreign ministers' meeting in India last week. Russia and US are at two opposite ends of political manoeuvres especially after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February last year. Lavrov was speaking during an interview on Russian state TV. He said that he spoke with Blinken for 10 minutes and both of them discussed nuclear arms issues and the conflict in Ukraine. This was the first meeting between the two leaders since the Russian invasion. "We spoke constructively, without emotions, we shook hands," Lavrov said. "Everything I heard was a position that has already been expressed and underlined in public many times before. I gave my honest, detailed assessment about the New START treaty, and why we saw it necessary to suspend it," he said. Last month, Russian President Vladimir Putin suspended Russian participation in the new START nuclear arms treaty. He accused the US of trying to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia in the Ukraine conflict. Russia said on Friday it was still in contact with Washington over the treaty, but held out little prospect of returning to it. Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24 last year. After sustained gains in the first months of the conflict, Russian forces had to retreat in face of Ukrainian counter-offensive. Russian forces are currently trying very hard to capture the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Talks with Blinken at G20 ‘constructive’ but US said nothing new: Lavrov

<p>Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that Moscow and New Delhi have stood strong against "colonial practices like unilateral sanctions" as he held wide-ranging talks with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar on Wednesday (March 1).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian foreign minister said that Moscow and New Delhi are consistent opponents of neo-colonial practices such as illegal unilateral sanctions, threats, blackmail and other forms of pressure on sovereign states.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lavrov spoke at the opening ceremony of the Tolstoy-Gandhi exhibition in New Delhi a day before attending the G20 foreign ministers' meeting in the Indian national capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-raises-issue-of-bbc-tax-searches-heres-what-india-said-5-points-567247">UK raises issue of BBC tax searches. Here's what India said - 5 points</a></strong></p>

<p>The two ministers discussed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and other issues of mutual interest. They also talked about the G20 foreign ministers' meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lavrov said that this year India and Russia will mark two events of significance to both Russia and India, which is the 195th birth anniversary of the great Russian writer Leo Tolstoy and the 75th anniversary of the tragic death of Mahatma Gandhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;G20 challenge: Reaching a consensus on Ukraine&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Lavrov said, "It is becoming increasingly important now to study the rich legacy of our countries' public figures and moral leaders. We appreciate the substantial creative potential of India's G20 Presidency and its theme on the unity of nations and common future for humanity, which resonates with the philosophy of Leo Tolstoy and Mahatma Gandhi."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that India and Russia&nbsp;have been consistently advocating "respect for the cultural and civilisational diversity of the modern world and the inalienable right of nations to independently choose their development paths".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that Moscow and New Delhi have stood strong against "colonial practices like unilateral sanctions" as he held wide-ranging talks with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar on Wednesday (March 1).

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that Moscow and New Delhi have stood strong against "colonial practices like unilateral sanctions" as he held wide-ranging talks with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar on Wednesday (March 1). The Russian foreign minister said that Moscow and New Delhi are consistent opponents of neo-colonial practices such as illegal unilateral sanctions, threats, blackmail and other forms of pressure on sovereign states. Lavrov spoke at the opening ceremony of the Tolstoy-Gandhi exhibition in New Delhi a day before attending the G20 foreign ministers' meeting in the Indian national capital. ALSO READ | UK raises issue of BBC tax searches. Here's what India said - 5 points The two ministers discussed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and other issues of mutual interest. They also talked about the G20 foreign ministers' meeting. Lavrov said that this year India and Russia will mark two events of significance to both Russia and India, which is the 195th birth anniversary of the great Russian writer Leo Tolstoy and the 75th anniversary of the tragic death of Mahatma Gandhi. WATCH | G20 challenge: Reaching a consensus on Ukraine × Lavrov said, "It is becoming increasingly important now to study the rich legacy of our countries' public figures and moral leaders. We appreciate the substantial creative potential of India's G20 Presidency and its theme on the unity of nations and common future for humanity, which resonates with the philosophy of Leo Tolstoy and Mahatma Gandhi." He added that India and Russia have been consistently advocating "respect for the cultural and civilisational diversity of the modern world and the inalienable right of nations to independently choose their development paths". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Lavrov says India and Russia stand strong against 'colonial practices like unilateral sanctions'

<p>Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Thursday (February 2) accused the United States of having been directly involved in Nord Stream gas pipeline explosions. He was speaking in an interview on state TV and he offered no evidence to substantiate his claims. Previously, Russian President Vladimir Putin had accused Britain of blowing up the pipelines. The accusation was denied promptly by the UK then.</p>

<p>In the interview, Lavrov also claimed that the West was lying about Russia's refusal to negotiate to end Ukraine crisis. He additionally alleged that there were attempts from the West to turn Moldova, Georgia and ex-Soviet republics in Central Asia against Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. After sustained territorial gains in the first few months of the conflict, the Russian forces had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counterattacks. Ukraine has received aid and weapons from western countries.</p>

<p><strong>Gravitas: Is NATO tired of Ukraine's demands?</strong></p>

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<p>Lavrov, on Thursday, accused the West of wanting to inflict lasting defeat against Moscow. He lashed out against&nbsp;European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen as she visited Kyiv.</p>

<p>"Ursula von der Leyen... said that the outcome of the war should be the defeat of Russia, the kind of defeat that for decades, for many decades, Russia cannot restore its economy," Lavrov said in comments aired on Russian state television.</p>

<p>"Is this not racism, not Nazism -- not an attempt to solve 'the Russian question'" Lavrov added, evoking Russia's victory against Nazi Germany in World War II.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-planning-2-billion-package-for-ukraine-that-includes-longer-range-rockets-557889">US planning $2 billion package for Ukraine that includes longer-range rockets</a></strong></p>

<p>The European Commission chief announced she had arrived in Kyiv with a team of commissioners and the bloc's most senior diplomat earlier on Thursday, a day before a Ukraine-EU summit in the war-torn country.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Thursday (February 2) accused the United States of having been directly involved in Nord Stream gas pipeline explosions.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Thursday (February 2) accused the United States of having been directly involved in Nord Stream gas pipeline explosions. He was speaking in an interview on state TV and he offered no evidence to substantiate his claims. Previously, Russian President Vladimir Putin had accused Britain of blowing up the pipelines. The accusation was denied promptly by the UK then. In the interview, Lavrov also claimed that the West was lying about Russia's refusal to negotiate to end Ukraine crisis. He additionally alleged that there were attempts from the West to turn Moldova, Georgia and ex-Soviet republics in Central Asia against Russia. Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. After sustained territorial gains in the first few months of the conflict, the Russian forces had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counterattacks. Ukraine has received aid and weapons from western countries. Gravitas: Is NATO tired of Ukraine's demands? × Lavrov, on Thursday, accused the West of wanting to inflict lasting defeat against Moscow. He lashed out against European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen as she visited Kyiv. "Ursula von der Leyen... said that the outcome of the war should be the defeat of Russia, the kind of defeat that for decades, for many decades, Russia cannot restore its economy," Lavrov said in comments aired on Russian state television. "Is this not racism, not Nazism -- not an attempt to solve 'the Russian question'" Lavrov added, evoking Russia's victory against Nazi Germany in World War II. Also Read | US planning $2 billion package for Ukraine that includes longer-range rockets The European Commission chief announced she had arrived in Kyiv with a team of commissioners and the bloc's most senior diplomat earlier on Thursday, a day before a Ukraine-EU summit in the war-torn country. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US directly involved in Nord Stream blasts, claims Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov was in South Africa for talks with one of its most important allies on a continent that is divided over Russia's invasion of Ukraine and related Western attempts to isolate it.

Talks on second Russia-African Summit on agenda, Lavrov and Pandor discuss bilateral issues

<p>Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Sunday (November 13) arrived in Bali, Indonesia to attend the G20 summit. Russian President Vladimir Putin has decided not to attend the summit.</p>

<p>Russia's participation in the G20 Summit is being looked upon globally especially in the light of Ukraine conflict.</p>

<p>Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 this year. After sustained battlefield advances, Russian forces were forced to retreat in the face of strong Ukrainian counter-offensive.</p>

<p>Recent retreat from Kherson has been the latest blow to Russian forces. Putin's near-invincible image, both in and out of Russia, has taken a beating.</p>

<p>Lavrov accused the United States of pushing the 'militarisation' Southeast Asia,"clearly aimed at containing China and limiting Russian interests in the region".</p>

<p>As the Ukraine invasion has ground on, and with Western sanctions biting, Russia has pivoted toward Southeast Asia in an attempt to shore up its battered economy.</p>

<p>Lavrov called Washington's strategy -- which has seen the United States push for closer relations with Southeast Asian nations -- "not inclusive and that compete with the inclusive structures created around ASEAN".</p>

<p>The regional summit in Cambodia has been dominated by international concerns, as first Ukraine and then the US-China rivalry overshadowed local concerns such as Myanmar.</p>

<p>The regional summit in Cambodia has been dominated by international concerns, as first Ukraine and then the US-China rivalry overshadowed local concerns such as Myanmar.</p>

<p>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p>

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Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Sunday (November 13) arrived in Bali, Indonesia to attend the G20 summit. Russian President Vladimir Putin has decided not to attend the summit.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Sunday (November 13) arrived in Bali, Indonesia to attend the G20 summit. Russian President Vladimir Putin has decided not to attend the summit. Russia's participation in the G20 Summit is being looked upon globally especially in the light of Ukraine conflict. Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 this year. After sustained battlefield advances, Russian forces were forced to retreat in the face of strong Ukrainian counter-offensive. Recent retreat from Kherson has been the latest blow to Russian forces. Putin's near-invincible image, both in and out of Russia, has taken a beating. Lavrov accused the United States of pushing the 'militarisation' Southeast Asia,"clearly aimed at containing China and limiting Russian interests in the region". As the Ukraine invasion has ground on, and with Western sanctions biting, Russia has pivoted toward Southeast Asia in an attempt to shore up its battered economy. Lavrov called Washington's strategy -- which has seen the United States push for closer relations with Southeast Asian nations -- "not inclusive and that compete with the inclusive structures created around ASEAN". The regional summit in Cambodia has been dominated by international concerns, as first Ukraine and then the US-China rivalry overshadowed local concerns such as Myanmar. The regional summit in Cambodia has been dominated by international concerns, as first Ukraine and then the US-China rivalry overshadowed local concerns such as Myanmar. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russia's foreign minister Sergei Lavrov arrives in Bali for G20 Summit

<p>Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has been taken to hospital after his arrival in Bali, Indonesia for G20 summit, reported AP citing Indonesian officials.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lavrov is attending the G20 summit in place of Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;Russia is expected to face flak in the summit for Ukraine war. AP said that Indonesian medical officials declined to be identified but said that Lavrov was being treated on the resort island.</p>

<p>It is being reported that Lavrov is being treated for ailment related to heart.</p>

<p>However, short time after the Lavrov's hospitalisation was reported Russia denied the development. Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman &nbsp;Maria Zakharova posted a video of the 72-year-old diplomat in a T-shirt and shorts along with her.</p>

<p>They were shown laughing in the video after several media reported that he was in hospital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We're here with Sergei Viktorovich (Lavrov) in Indonesia, reading the wires and we can't believe our eyes," Zakharova said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's the highest level of fake."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lavrov claimed the reports were part of "some kind of game" that he blamed on Western media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They've been writing for about 10 years that our president is sick," he said.</p>

<p>Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 this year. After sustained territorial gains in the initial months of the invasion, the Russian troops have had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counter-offensive. Retreat from Kherson has become a latest blow to the Russian war campaign.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has been taken to hospital after his arrival in Bali, Indonesia for G20 summit, reported AP citing Indonesian officials. Lavrov is attending the G20 summit in place of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has been taken to hospital after his arrival in Bali, Indonesia for G20 summit, reported AP citing Indonesian officials. Lavrov is attending the G20 summit in place of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Russia is expected to face flak in the summit for Ukraine war. AP said that Indonesian medical officials declined to be identified but said that Lavrov was being treated on the resort island. It is being reported that Lavrov is being treated for ailment related to heart. However, short time after the Lavrov's hospitalisation was reported Russia denied the development. Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova posted a video of the 72-year-old diplomat in a T-shirt and shorts along with her. They were shown laughing in the video after several media reported that he was in hospital. "We're here with Sergei Viktorovich (Lavrov) in Indonesia, reading the wires and we can't believe our eyes," Zakharova said. "It's the highest level of fake." Lavrov claimed the reports were part of "some kind of game" that he blamed on Western media. "They've been writing for about 10 years that our president is sick," he said. Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 this year. After sustained territorial gains in the initial months of the invasion, the Russian troops have had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counter-offensive. Retreat from Kherson has become a latest blow to the Russian war campaign. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov reportedly taken to hospital in Bali, Russia denies

'We're on the side of peace', this was Dr. S Jaishankar's message to critics during his bilateral with Russian FM Lavrov. Jaishankar stressed on India's energy security compulsions & called New Delhi's ties with Moscow 'exceptionally steady'.

Gravitas: Jaishankar sets the record straight in Moscow

The foreign minister Jaishankar who's on a two-day visit to Russia has held talks with his Russian counterparts Sergey Lavrov. Both leaders spoke on a wide range of issues pertaining to global matters and of course bilateral ties.

WION Dispatch: Jaishankar, Lavrov hold crucial bilateral, Ukraine conflict on top focus

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov meets the secretary-general of the organization of Islamic cooperation. He hailed the ties between Moscow and the Muslim nations.

Lavrov hails Russia's ties with Islamic countries, calls them 'long-standing reliable partners'

WION Fineprint | Russia hails ties with Muslim Nations

Speaking at the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov defended his country's seven-month invasion of Ukraine and repeated a series of grievances about its neighbor and the West.

77th UNGA Meet: Lavrov pledges full protection for any territory annexed by Russia

The Russian president has implemented his plan in motion. Referendums are being held in Moscow held regions of Ukraine. The referendums in Eastern Donetsk and Luhansk regions as well as in the Southern Kershaw and Zaporizhzhia regions are to decide whether these regions will become part of Russia.

Lavrov: Russophobia sparked push for referendums, West and Kyiv call the polls illegal

The United Nations Security Council held a crucial meeting focusing on Russia's war in Ukraine. It was the first direct encounter between US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Ukraine's Dmytro Kuleba.

UNSC discusses abuses in Ukraine

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held talks with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov. They talked for the first time since the Ukraine war began.

Blinken holds conversation with Lavrov; First talk since the Ukraine war began

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is going to speak to Russian foreign minister Lavrov soon. The release of Americans detained is on the agenda.

WION Dispatch| Russia: Talks on with US over prisoner swap

US secretary of state Antony Blinken says that he will speak with Russian FM Sergey Lavrov in the coming days. Blinken's agenda will be to facilitate the release detained Americans.

Antony Blinken to speak with Lavrov over releasing detained Americans

The U.S. proposes a deal with Russia in a bid to demand the release of detained Americans

Russia's foreign minister Sergey Lavrov has once again dismissed claims that Moscow is causing a food crisis across the globe and he has blamed Western sanctions for the rising food prices; Lavrov's statement came as he made a crucial visit to Egypt on Sunday.

Global food crisis: Lavrov meets Egyptian leaders; Moscow attempts to break diplomatic isolation

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