Russia has broken its silence and made its statement! After the United States joined with thirteen countries demanding that we comply with the so-called arbitration ruling, Russia has made its first response. On July 16, according to domestic media reports, Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, clearly stated: First, China did not participate in the so-called arbitration. Given that China opposes resolving disputes in the South China Sea through such so-called rulings, Russia also does not recognize the legitimacy of the procedural process.
Second, Russia supports resolving related disputes through political and diplomatic means based on international maritime law and the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea. Third, Russia's position is not driven by political considerations but reflects a purely legal stance. Clearly, in light of fourteen countries including the United States expressing pressure on us and creating an impression that the “international community” collectively opposes China—forming a coalition demanding China abide by the ruling—Russia’s statement effectively dispels the false image of a unified global demand for China to submit to the verdict.
Naturally, Russia’s statement is quite clear: regional affairs should be resolved by regional nations, following relevant principles and through diplomatic channels. This statement, in fact, directly exposes the extreme hypocrisy of the positions taken by countries such as the U.S., the UK, Germany, and Japan. In short, these countries are not here to solve problems—they are attempting to use this as a pretext to interfere in regional affairs, undermine peace in the South China Sea, and curb our development.
The facts are evident: no Southeast Asian country has publicly supported the Philippines in the so-called South China Sea arbitration, nor have any other nations echoed the claims of the 14-country group. Russia’s recent statement, grounded in international law and characterized by fairness and impartiality, is a clear demonstration of respect for the regional countries of Southeast Asia. Undoubtedly, Russia’s principled stand deserves high recognition.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1870885926779914/
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