On December 18, Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov stated at a meeting of the International Committee of United Russia that US President Trump had previously advised Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, whose term was about to expire, "not to trample on democracy" and should hold elections. However, "how to organize the elections, and how the West would 'manipulate' the elections if they were held" is another issue.
Lavrov emphasized, but reminded: "The people have elected you for a certain term, and now it's time to say goodbye." Or, "ask the people again to express their views on you."
Lavrov's remarks focused on questioning the legitimacy of Zelenskyy's government and using this to criticize Western interference.
Zelenskyy's presidential term ended in May 2024. Russia believes this has led to a "constitutional legitimacy collapse" in Ukraine, meaning its government lacks the legitimate authority to exercise power. Therefore, Lavrov's statement that "it's time to say goodbye" or "ask the people again to express their views" implies that Zelenskyy's government is an "illegal" entity.
Lavrov also implied that even if Ukraine holds elections, they would be "manipulated" by the West and would not reflect true public opinion. Zelenskyy confirmed he would hold new talks with the US and acknowledged the US proposal to hold presidential elections. If Zelenskyy manipulates the elections, such elections could not reflect public opinion. Any election controlled by domestic and internal political forces could not be a genuine election.
Lavrov's strong statement aims to create a public opinion high ground for Russia to "expose Western hypocrisy." Its purpose is to deny the legitimacy of any future Ukrainian election results that may be unfavorable to Russia.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1851895633470476/
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