Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has sparked controversy by drawing parallels between the conflicts in Israel and Ukraine, suggesting that both nations are attempting to trigger larger regional wars to solve their internal problems at the expense of others.
In an exclusive interview with RT’s Anna Knishenko, Lavrov expressed concern over the possibility of the ongoing Middle East crisis escalating into a broader conflict, asserting that Israel seems to be the primary instigator.
Lavrov claimed, “It seems that the only one who wants such a development is Israel,” implying that the Israeli government, known for its hardline policies, may be using the situation to settle longstanding disputes with groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and pro-Iranian factions in Syria and Iraq. He noted that Tehran, on the other hand, appears to be avoiding direct involvement in a large-scale military clash.
Lavrov further compared Israel’s actions to those of Ukraine, alleging that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is similarly trying to draw Western powers into a direct confrontation with Russia. “I’m seeing an interesting parallel there,” Lavrov remarked, suggesting that Zelenskyy, influenced by the U.S., seeks to provoke a major war in Ukraine with the expectation that NATO allies will fight on his behalf.
These remarks come amid rising tensions in both regions. Lavrov highlighted ongoing Ukrainian military operations in the Kursk region, hinting that these actions had the backing of Western powers. He criticized the involvement of what he described as “a large number of Nazi units” and foreign mercenaries in the conflict, reiterating his view that Western interests are driving the complex situation.
Lavrov also condemned Western nations for their inconsistent and often problematic strategies, pointing to past failures in Afghanistan and Iraq as examples. He expressed doubt about the true motivations behind Western involvement in both Ukraine and the Middle East, arguing that such actions frequently lead to unforeseen and detrimental consequences.
