Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov announced that his planned meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will take place on Thursday. Speaking after the Russia–ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Manila, the capital of the Philippines, Lavrov delivered key remarks on global developments and regional tensions.
At a press conference following the Russia–ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Manila, Lavrov addressed ongoing diplomatic efforts and broader international developments.
Confirming that the meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio had been finalized, Lavrov said:
“Not only is the meeting possible, but it has already been agreed upon. Yesterday, we had a brief conversation with Marco Rubio during the reception and confirmed the arrangements. The meeting will take place tomorrow (Thursday) during the first half of the day. I hope we will have the opportunity to share our impressions with you afterward.”
Commenting on U.S. President Donald Trump’s statement that a resolution to the conflict in Ukraine may be approaching, Lavrov said he would ask Rubio about the remark during their meeting.
“Especially since he also made rather vague comments regarding the outcome of the Anchorage talks. In any case, the meeting will be useful. It is always better to ask questions directly and receive answers.”
EU Rearmament and the Ukraine Process
Addressing European security, Lavrov stated:
- On the European Union’s military buildup: “We are prepared for any developments related to the militarization of the European Union, but we have no intention of attacking anyone.”
- On ASEAN’s position: “We felt that the overwhelming majority of ASEAN member states understand Russia’s position regarding a settlement of the Ukraine crisis.”
- On the Black Sea Grain Initiative: Lavrov said no new proposal had been made to revive the grain deal. He also accused the United Nations of playing a biased role and argued that the agreement had been implemented in a way that primarily served Ukraine’s interests.
Nuclear Issues and Regional Tensions
Lavrov also commented on several security-related issues:
- Germany’s alleged nuclear ambitions: He described reports that Germany is developing its own nuclear program as “truly alarming.”
- Iran and nuclear proliferation: Lavrov said Russia regrets that aggressive actions against Iran could encourage more countries to seek nuclear weapons.
- The Strait of Hormuz: He stressed that continued tensions around the Strait of Hormuz are in the interest of neither the United States nor Iran, adding:
“We want this conflict, which directly affects the global economy, to end as soon as possible.”
- Defense cooperation with North Korea: Lavrov stated that Russia and North Korea had reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Pyongyang’s defense capabilities in response to what they described as “aggressive actions” around the Korean Peninsula.
New Financial System and Economic Cooperation
Lavrov also outlined Russia’s economic priorities:
- A financial system independent of the West: He said Russia and ASEAN foreign ministers discussed creating a new financial system that would be protected from what he described as Western financial abuses.
- Trade target: Lavrov announced that Russia aims to double its trade volume with ASEAN member states by 2036.
- Saudi Arabia and uranium enrichment: He added that Saudi Arabia does not need permission from the United States to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes.