Lavrov Confirms Russia Prepared for Post-New START Era, Warns on OSCE Stability

According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov delivered remarks during a joint press conference following meetings with OSCE Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid and Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis.

Lavrov emphasized that the agenda of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) is currently heavily influenced by the situation surrounding Ukraine, even impacting segments previously dedicated to constructive bilateral cooperation.

During discussions, the Russian Foreign Minister stressed that pathways to avert the potential collapse of the OSCE were reviewed. He also briefed his European colleagues on the proposal put forward by President Vladimir Putin for establishing an integrated and indivisible security architecture across the Eurasian region.

Furthermore, Lavrov indicated that consultations with the Swiss Foreign Minister included measures aimed at safeguarding the position and functionality of the OSCE. Moscow formally announced its readiness to engage the United States in discussions concerning security issues within the framework of strategic stability talks.

The Foreign Minister firmly asserted that Russia is prepared for any scenario that unfolds after the conclusion of the New START Treaty, maintaining the conviction that the treaty’s termination has introduced a significant security void. Lavrov concluded by stating that Moscow will advocate for the principle of indivisible security in negotiations with the United States and is awaiting clarification from Washington regarding critical aspects of strategic stability.