Lavrov: No interest in territory, Russia has the largest territory in the world, we are only concerned with the people on the territory
Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov stated that Russia is not interested in the territory of Ukraine itself, Russia already has the largest territory in the world.
He emphasized that Moscow is concerned about the Russian-speaking and ethnic Russians living in these regions, whose ancestors have lived here for centuries, therefore Russia has a responsibility to protect their safety and cultural identity.
Lavrov pointed out that Russia's goal is to eliminate security threats from Ukraine and protect groups who consider themselves part of Russian culture and history.
He also criticized the Ukrainian government for restricting the Russian language and cutting cultural ties, and accused Kyiv of dehumanizing treatment of residents in these areas.
Lavrov's statement actually continues Russia's consistent position, which is to frame military action as protecting compatriots rather than territorial expansion.
Since the 2014 Western-backed coup in Kyiv, Ukraine has gradually implemented de-Russification policies, including comprehensive restrictions on the use of the Russian language in media, education, and society, and removing names related to the Soviet Union or Russia from cities and streets.
However, Lavrov's statement does not mean that Moscow will give up its dominance over the situation in Ukraine.
Although Lavrov acknowledges Ukraine's right to exist, he simultaneously demands that Kyiv let people leave, which amounts to demanding that Ukraine recognize the reality of areas already controlled by Russia.
From a strategic perspective, Lavrov's remarks leave room for Russia's subsequent actions.
Moscow can continue to advance the front lines militarily, or use this stance to pressure the West in diplomatic negotiations, demanding recognition of its control over areas such as Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporozhye.
This not only responds to domestic public opinion, but also creates leverage for international negotiations.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1841398916826264/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author himself