Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, in a press conference addressing Russia’s foreign policy and global developments, criticized Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky’s speech in Davos, alleging it contained falsehoods about the Minsk agreements. Lavrov asserted that Zelensky “openly lied to the whole world” at the World Economic Forum. Lavrov argued that the failure to implement the Minsk agreements, crucial for resolving the Ukrainian problem, was hindered by the West, specifically mentioning former leaders Merkel and Hollande. He claimed they signed the agreements to buy time for Ukraine to prepare for war. Lavrov emphasized that the Minsk agreements aimed to end the conflict, and Zelensky’s assertions were misleading to the international community.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Arakchi issued a stern warning to the UK, Germany, and France, accusing them of making a “new strategic mistake” regarding Tehran’s nuclear program. In a social media post, Arakchi said, “Iran will give a tough and determined response to the violation of its rights,” criticizing the European trio for backing a resolution against Iran at the IAEA Board of Governors.
Arakchi condemned the move as baseless, recalling past disputes in 2005 which led to the expansion of Iran’s uranium enrichment. “Have these three really not learned any lessons in the last twenty years?” he said.
Meanwhile, the IAEA reported on May 31 that Iran’s 60% enriched uranium stockpile had grown from 274.8 kg in February to 408.6 kg by May 17. In response, the UK, Germany, and France are reportedly preparing to refer Iran’s file to the UN Security Council, which could activate the “snapback” mechanism and reimpose UN sanctions.
TR