Tehran - BORNA - In a detailed interview with TASS news agency, the Russian top diplomat noted that Moscow has observed a strategic patience from the Iranian side. "We have noticed that the Iranians are showing maximum restraint, responding to all Western provocations and blackmail with an openness to dialogue to find ways for a political resolution to current contradictions," Lavrov stated.
The year 2025 saw a significant escalation in regional tensions. Five rounds of nuclear negotiations between Iran and the U.S., mediated by Oman, ended without results due to the Israeli regime's military operations against the Islamic Republic and U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.
The Fragility of Peace in Gaza
Addressing the situation in the Levant, Lavrov reiterated Moscow’s support for a just settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, emphasizing that the establishment of a viable Palestinian state remains a key factor. "Regardless of how the situation in Gaza and its surroundings develops, we reaffirm our commitment to a just resolution based on the globally recognized legal framework," he said.
Lavrov described the current situation in the Gaza Strip as "unstable," noting that it is premature to speak of a lasting peace. While welcoming international mediation efforts that halted major clashes and prevented widespread famine, he pointed to significant uncertainties. "How can Hamas be disarmed? Who will form the international stabilization force and when will it be deployed? Will Israeli forces withdraw, and if so, when? These are questions to which no one yet has answers," Lavrov remarked, stressing that the core issue remains correcting a historical injustice by creating a Palestinian state to coexist alongside Israel.
Warnings Over European Troops in Ukraine
Turning to the conflict in Ukraine, the Russian Foreign Minister issued a stern warning regarding the potential deployment of a European "Coalition of the Willing." He asserted that any such military presence would become a legitimate target for the Russian Armed Forces.
"The ambitions of European politicians have literally blinded them. They seem not to care about their own people, let alone Ukrainians," Lavrov told TASS. This statement follows an earlier announcement by European leaders regarding the creation of a multinational force under European leadership, and UK Defense Secretary John Healey’s confirmation that coalition members had increased their combat readiness for a potential deployment. Lavrov added that President Volodymyr Zelensky and his Western backers do not appear ready for genuine negotiations, accusing Kyiv of "terrorizing civilians" through sabotage against Russian infrastructure.
Moscow’s Readiness for Dialogue with the U.S.
Despite the tensions, Lavrov expressed Moscow’s appreciation for the peace efforts of U.S. President Donald Trump and his team. He stated that Russia is ready to work with American negotiators to advance "acceptable and permanent" agreements regarding Ukraine. "We are committed to addressing the root causes of the conflict through sustainable agreements," he said. He also claimed that the West is turning a blind eye to corruption scandals in Ukraine to continue using Kyiv as a "battering ram" against Russia.
The Shift in U.S. National Security Strategy
Lavrov analyzed the updated U.S. National Security Strategy released on December 5, 2025. He noted that for the first time, Washington has openly questioned NATO’s long-standing commitment to expansionism, even if it hasn't officially renounced the policy.
"The updated strategy does not call for subjecting our country to a system-wide policy of containment and deterrence," Lavrov observed. He interpreted this as a potential attempt by Washington to rethink its international position and move away from the philosophy of "exclusive responsibility" for the world order. He emphasized that while some ideas in the strategy align with efforts to promote dialogue, Moscow will judge the U.S. based on its actual actions rather than theoretical documents.
Europe as a Barrier and Japan’s Militarization
In a sharp critique of the European Union, Lavrov stated that Brussels has emerged as a primary obstacle to peace. "They do not hide the fact that they are preparing to fight Russia on the battlefield," he said, noting that a recent attempt to force the EU into seizing Russian foreign exchange reserves for the Zelensky government had failed.
Finally, the Russian Foreign Minister addressed Japan’s rapid militarization. He advised Tokyo to carefully weigh the potential consequences of such a destructive approach to regional stability. "Japan must fully assess everything before making hasty decisions that could have military consequences," Lavrov concluded.
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