Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has criticized NATO executive director Mark Latte for intervening in the Ukrainian settlement and criticized him for “issuing instructions” to President Voldymir Zelensky.
At a press conference in Johannesburg, South Africa, Lavrov denounced Latte’s interference in the Ukrainian reconciliation process, calling it an example of political turmoil, the Anadolu Agency reported.
Citing the Russian intelligence report, he claimed that Rutte was giving directions to Zelenskyy, urging him to hold his position until negotiations in Ukraine began.
“This is definitely a bacchanalia (chaos and inappropriate behavior). Latte blatantly tramples his functional duties and violates them,” Lavrov argued.
Commenting on the Ukraine settlement, the minister criticized the Zelensky government, claiming it was “consuming” hundreds of millions of dollars that could be used to develop a country that is in need.
The minister said that not all NATO members have adopted a “aggressive stance” and some are reluctant to spend money on Ukraine or submit to “Zelensky’s demands.” He pointed out that there is.
He also made it clear that Russia and the United States have not discussed the possibility of ease of sanctions as part of the Ukraine agreement.
Turning to the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Conference in Johannesburg, he said Russia was “generally pleased” with the results.
Lavrov acknowledged that there remained disagreements on several points, including the Ukraine crisis, but emphasized that the dialogue would continue.
The Minister also noted that the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) may have an opportunity to apply for G20 membership in the future.