Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mariya Zakharova made statements on Lebanon, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Asia Pacific, and the Balkans during her weekly press conference at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.
Zakharova stated that they support Lebanon's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, calling on Israel to establish a ceasefire and withdraw its troops from Lebanon. She said these steps would create suitable conditions for a political and diplomatic resolution of the issue.
Emphasis on political solution for Lebanon
Zakharova expressed Russia's readiness to initiate efforts to improve the situation in Lebanon. She also mentioned that they could work with regional and international partners on this matter.
In her statement, she emphasized that the conflict should be resolved through political and diplomatic means rather than military methods. In this context, she said the ceasefire and withdrawal calls are a priority.
Harsh words on Armenia and the EU front
Zakharova criticized Armenia's approach, saying it is trying to both get closer to the European Union and maintain its membership in the Eurasian Economic Union. She argued that the Armenian administration is trying to sit on two chairs at the same time, which is not suitable for anyone.
Zakharova said Russia does not want to finance Armenia's orientation towards the EU and accused the EU of pursuing hostile policies against Russia and other countries. She also alleged that this structure supports and finances terrorists in Kyiv.
On the other hand, Zakharova stated that they want to maintain a partnership based on mutual respect with Armenia and described statements claiming that Moscow does not treat Armenia properly as perverse.
Azerbaijan and detained Russian citizens
Zakharova expressed their intention to develop relations with Azerbaijan in all areas. She also voiced hope that the detained Russian citizens in Azerbaijan will be released.
She said they are in dialogue with Baku on this matter and that contacts between the two countries continue. Her statements conveyed the message that relations have not completely broken down; on the contrary, dialogue continues on some issues.
Asia Pacific and Balkans assessment
Addressing developments in the Asia Pacific region, Zakharova accused the US of trying to fuel an arms race in the region through others and said they condemn this. She stated that such a process could disrupt the order and security system in the region and create new dividing lines.
Zakharova added that they favor resolving problems in the region through political and diplomatic tools. Thus, she reiterated Russia's message of advocating diplomatic solutions instead of tensions.
At the press conference, Zakharova alleged that NATO is trying to use the Balkans for its own interests and claimed that Serbia is being pulled away from Russia. She criticized this approach, saying it would divide the country.
Conditional door to relations with Germany
Zakharova also responded to a question about the possibility of improving relations with Germany. She said that talks could be possible if Berlin officially condemns terrorist attacks against its citizens and stops financing international terrorism.
Thus, the statements once again highlighted Russia's tough foreign policy stance on tensions in different regions. The main topics at the meeting were Lebanon, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Asia Pacific, the Balkans, and Germany.