Lavrov: Russia and the U.S. "Have Come to a Point Where It's Time to Talk" About the Future of Bilateral Economic Relations
On April 18, Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov stated at the Antalya Diplomatic Forum that Moscow and Washington have reached a point where it is time to discuss the future of their economic ties.
He pointed out that significant differences still exist between Russia and the U.S. during the Trump administration.
"Especially in practical and pragmatic cooperation areas. No sanctions introduced during the Biden era have been lifted—neither has the return of diplomatic real estate occurred. Our companies—Gazprom Neft and Rosneft—have faced new sanctions, while the Trump administration itself has made no secret of its goal: ensuring American dominance in the global energy market."
Lavrov emphasized, "The U.S. has set its sights on energy hegemony. But despite this, I believe we have come to a moment when it’s necessary to sit down and discuss exactly how the U.S. envisions the future of Russia-U.S. economic relations."
Micro-commentary
Lavrov directly exposes the true motive behind U.S. sanctions against Russia’s energy sector: excluding Russia from the global energy market and seizing its share—not some alleged 'security reasons.'
Lavrov acknowledges ongoing rifts between Russia and the U.S., continued sanctions, and unreturned diplomatic assets, refusing to dodge the reality of bilateral deadlock. His call for dialogue aims to secure space for Russian energy exports and corporate survival, while also testing the policy limits of the Trump administration.
Evidently, the U.S. pursuit of 'energy hegemony' fundamentally clashes with Russia’s energy interests; while formal talks may be feasible, substantive compromise remains highly unlikely.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1862818288134144/
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