Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Thursday criticised the United States’ diplomatic approach, urging Washington to prioritise dialogue over confrontation when dealing with governments it opposes.
Lavrov said the US should “begin by engaging in dialogue” whenever it “dislikes a particular government.”
He asserted that countries have generally remained open to talks with Washington, adding, “No country has ever refused dialogue with the US.”
Lavrov further accused the United States of undermining international agreements, claiming that it has repeatedly withdrawn from commitments. “It was the US, however, that first made agreements and then walked away from them,” he said.
The remarks come amid heightened tensions in West Asia. Russia’s Security Council warned that the United States and Israel could be using ongoing diplomatic efforts as a cover for a potential ground offensive against Iran.
According to Russia’s state-run TASS news agency, the Council noted an increase in American military presence in the region, stating that the Pentagon continues to reinforce its forces.
Moscow also highlighted Iran’s defensive capabilities, asserting that Tehran possesses sufficient military strength to respond to any potential aggression by the United States or Israel.
Despite these warnings, diplomatic efforts are continuing. as indirect talks between Washington and Tehran still exist with Pakistan playing a mediating role.
A high-level Pakistani delegation, led by Army Chief Asim Munir is in Tehran to convey messages from Washington and facilitate further negotiations. He held discussions with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi as part of efforts to revive stalled talks following the earlier Islamabad round.
Key issues under discussion include the duration of a potential freeze on Iran’s uranium enrichment programme, ranging from five to 20 years, and the future handling of its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Options under consideration include transferring the material to a third country or reducing enrichment levels.
Munir is expected to travel to Washington next as diplomatic engagement continues amid persistent geopolitical tensions.
