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Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Monday suggested to President Vladimir Putin that Moscow pursue a diplomatic path in its efforts to secure guarantees from the West as tensions rise over Ukraine.
Lavrov told Putin that the United States had put forward concrete proposals for reducing military risks, but said responses from the European Union and the NATO military alliance were unsatisfactory.
In a televised address, Putin appeared asking Lavrov if he had a chance to reach an agreement to address Russia’s security concerns, or if it was simply entering into difficult negotiations.
Lavrov responded: “We have already warned more than once that we will not allow endless negotiations on issues that need to be resolved today.” But as foreign minister, he said, “I have to say there are always chances.”
He added: “It seems to me that our opportunities are not exhausted… At this stage I would suggest their continuation and construction.”
The comments appeared to signal a reduced chance of imminent Russian military action following repeated warnings from the United States that Russia could attack Ukraine at any time.
Moscow, which has amassed more than 100,000 troops near the Russian border with Ukraine, has repeatedly denied any plans to invade and accused the United States and its allies of hysteria.
Lavrov said he had received “unsatisfactory” responses to a letter he sent to dozens of members of the European Union and NATO on the issue of “indivisible security” – a reference to Russia’s complaint that Ukraine and Western countries are strengthening security. at the expense of Russia and that this is contrary to international agreements.
“I received unsatisfactory responses, none of my fellow ministers responded to my direct message,” he said. “Therefore we will continue to seek a concrete response from each country.”
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