From: New Voice of Ukraine 🇺🇦 Russia continues to show a clear unwillingness to engage in any genuine negotiations with Ukraine, analysts from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) wrote on Sept. 9.
This conclusion follows recent diplomatic maneuvers by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.
On Sept. 9, Lavrov visited Saudi Arabia, participating in a ministerial meeting between Russia and the Gulf Countries Cooperation Council. His likely goal was to further Kremlin efforts to establish a so-called “Eurasian security architecture” favored by Moscow.
Lavrov met with several officials and members of the Saudi monarchy, emphasizing Russia’s interest in strengthening cooperation with Gulf countries. Discussions included boosting trade, cultural ties, and bilateral investments. Lavrov also invited Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman to the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, scheduled for October 2024.
Russia and China support the creation of a Eurasian security architecture within the framework of the Gulf Cooperation Council, Lavrov said in July 2024, ISW reminded.
The analysts believe Lavrov used his meetings in Saudi Arabia to advance this agenda, which aligns with Russia’s long-term strategy of weakening Western unity, dividing NATO, and undermining the world order.
Voice of Ukraine 