New york, 28 September (H.S.): In a comprehensive address to the United Nations General Assembly, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov declared that Russia harbors no intention to attack European Union or NATO member states.

Lavrov criticized what he called increasingly common Western threats against Russia, labeling accusations of Russian plans to attack NATO and the EU as baseless provocations repeatedly debunked by President Putin.

Lavrov expressed readiness to respond decisively to any aggression directed at Russia, underscoring Moscow’s position of defensive posture. He also condemned Israeli actions in Gaza, criticizing both Hamas attacks and Israeli military responses, and opposed plans to annex the West Bank, urging respect for Palestinian rights.

Addressing ongoing tensions in Europe, Lavrov highlighted NATO’s military buildup and accused some EU and NATO politicians of escalating militancy and talk of a potential Third World War. He reiterated Russia’s call for respect of the UN Charter’s principles, warning against double standards and unilateral actions by Western powers.

Regarding the conflict in Ukraine, Lavrov blamed Western influence for the crisis and voiced hope for pragmatic US-Russia cooperation toward resolving the conflict. His speech aimed to present Russia as a nation seeking peace and fairness amid challenging global diplomacy.Meanwhile, Russia dismissed allegations of airspace violations and drone incursions in NATO countries as unsubstantiated.

Lavrov urged the international community to reject alarmist rhetoric and work toward genuine dialogue and balance in global relations.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar