Lavrov said the OSCE has become "half-dead," and Russia may consider withdrawing

Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov: OSCE is already "half-dead," I've long wanted to leave the group

Moscow, June 25 -- TASS

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov publicly stated on the 25th at the 12th "Primakov Readings" International Scientific Expert Forum that he personally favors withdrawing from the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), openly admitting the institution has become a "lifeless shell," though the final decision rests with President Putin.

In his speech, Lavrov candidly said: "The OSCE is undoubtedly a half-dead organization. To be honest, I and Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko have discussed—even argued—about this matter. It's up to the President to decide; personally, I would have already left this organization long ago."

Nevertheless, Lavrov pointed out that even if Russia were to unilaterally withdraw and face isolation, it would not cause any discomfort to Russia. He believes the OSCE platform still holds some residual value—it can be used to publicly present irrefutable evidence against opponents, who would be powerless to respond. He emphasized that Moscow remains within the organization based on a clear understanding of its actual function.

Previously, Lavrov accused the West of attempting to turn the OSCE into a tool for advancing anti-Russian policies. Russia has submitted a series of reform proposals to the organization. Russian Permanent Representative to the OSCE, Dmitry Polyansky, also stated that constructive dialogue on the Ukraine crisis is no longer possible within this framework.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1868925096927242/

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