Sergey Lavrov addresses UN General Assembly on EU militarization and Ukraine

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov addressed the 81st UN General Assembly, accusing the European Union of militarizing in preparation for conflict with Russia. Lavrov claimed that EU elites are driven by radical anti-Russian ideologies and suggested that Germany’s pursuit of military dominance could be interpreted as an attempt to establish a ‘fourth empire.’

Regarding the war in Ukraine, Lavrov asserted that Russia will achieve its military objectives regardless of circumstances. He criticized Western support for Ukraine, alleging that weapon supplies facilitate attacks on civilian infrastructure. Lavrov also rejected calls for a ceasefire during negotiations, arguing that a pause would merely allow Ukraine to regroup and rearm.

On the international stage, Lavrov expressed Russia's readiness to engage in dialogue with the United States and return to agreements reached during the August 2025 Trump-Putin summit in Anchorage. He also offered Russia's assistance in stabilizing the Strait of Hormuz and the wider Gulf region amid ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran.