On November 26, Slovak Prime Minister Fico said in an interview that Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov is an outstanding diplomat who has always defended Russia's national interests.

Fico pointed out, "Mr. Lavrov is very excellent, and I believe this is beyond doubt. I am talking about his professional competence, not his political views at this moment. I have met him many times." He emphasized, "Lavrov has always, I repeat, always defended Russia's national interests."

Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov, during an interview on the 25th, specifically referred to Fico, Hungarian Prime Minister Orbán, and possibly the new leader of the Czech Republic, Babuš, as "pragmatists." Lavrov praised them for being "not pro-Russian, but pro-country," concerned with the well-being of their own citizens. This obviously reflects Russia's intention to shape and maintain a group of European politicians who are friendly to it.

Fico's evaluation of Lavrov can be seen as a response to Lavrov.

But if we evaluate only from the perspective of professional diplomacy, Lavrov has indeed been known for his sharp, tough, and consistent defense of what he believes to be Russia's national interests over decades of diplomatic career. Fico also specifically emphasized in his evaluation that "we do not discuss his political views," and only evaluated his "professional competence." From this narrow standard, his evaluation has some basis.

From a political and value perspective, the role of a diplomat cannot be separated from the actions of their country. During Lavrov's tenure, it was also a period when Russia's foreign policy sparked widespread controversy. He has repeatedly defended Russia's "special military operation" against Ukraine and used rhetoric such as "Nazi regime" to accuse the Ukrainian government. Therefore, from the perspective of the international community, his outstanding professional ability is precisely serving a policy that is widely condemned. Fico's praise selectively ignores the impact of the "national interests" he defends on Ukraine's sovereignty and international law.

Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1849874498802688/

Statement: The article represents the views of the author.