UNITED NATIONS: Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov launched a harsh rebuke of the United States and Western powers during his speech at the United Nations General Assembly. Lavrov accused Western nations of perpetuating conflicts and hindering the establishment of a truly multipolar world order.
In his address, Lavrov stated, “The US and its subordinate Western collective are continuing to fuel conflicts which artificially divide humanity into hostile blocks and hamper the achievement of overall aims. They’re doing everything they can to prevent the formation of a genuine multipolar world order.”
He further asserted that Western countries were attempting to impose their self-centered rules on the global stage, emphasizing the need for a more equitable international order.
While briefly touching on historical grievances related to the 1991 breakup of the Soviet Union, Lavrov did not delve into the ongoing conflict in Ukraine during his speech.
The protracted 19-month war in Ukraine has seen little resolution, with a Ukrainian counteroffensive progressing slowly and yielding modest gains but no decisive breakthroughs.
🎙 Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov addresses the UN General Assembly at the General Debate of #UNGA78 pic.twitter.com/S5hmQPUEX8
— MFA Russia 🇷🇺 (@mfa_russia) September 23, 2023
🔴 #LIVE: Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks at the General Debate of 78th Session of the UN General Assembly #UNGA78
https://t.co/QiaUFpJi1r— MFA Russia 🇷🇺 (@mfa_russia) September 23, 2023
Criticism of Russia’s Actions in Ukraine
Lavrov’s address followed speeches by Ukrainian President Volodomyr Zelenskyy and US President Joe Biden, both of whom expressed concerns over Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Zelenskyy accused Russia of weaponizing various aspects, including food and energy, against Ukraine and the international rules-based order. Biden called upon world leaders to continue supporting Ukraine, highlighting the implications of allowing the dismemberment of nations.
Lavrov and Zelenskyy also addressed the UN Security Council earlier in the week but did not engage in a direct confrontation, as Zelenskyy had left the room before Lavrov’s appearance.
During his visit to New York for the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Lavrov participated in numerous bilateral and multilateral meetings with counterparts and key Russian allies. He discussed various topics, including the Ukrainian crisis and allegations of Western Russophobia, while also meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to address Ukrainian aggression in Donbas.
