Embassy comment
We have read another set of speculations by Jonathan Eyal under the title ‘Europe's worst nightmare closer to reality after Trump's call with Putin’, published in The Straits Times on February 14, 2025. We see nothing in them but confusion at the prospect of restarting US-Russian dialogue formats.
The author's fears, which, incidentally, he is trying to instill in his readers, were best answered by Sergey Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, at a joint press conference with Sirojiddin Mukhriddin, Foreign Minister of Tajikistan, on 13 February 2025.
The Minister said literally the following:
“From the way the world froze after Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin spoke by telephone, it is clear that the West has been taking for granted everything that is happening in Ukraine, what Vladimir Zelensky’s Nazi regime is doing. “So, this is the way you deal with Russia.” That is probably why many in the West, starting with the European Union leaders, were stunned by a normal, basic conversation between two well-mannered, polite people who do not put their differences aside. They have their disagreements, but they realise that politics is about sitting down and talking, and finding common ground.
Regrettably, the reaction in the West shows that there are practically no such people left there. Two well-mannered men have just shown the world how politics should be done. I just hope that this will make those who have forgotten how it is done come to their senses, and re-read their history books as well as political science books.”
We don't think there's a better answer.
We have read another set of speculations by Jonathan Eyal under the title ‘Europe's worst nightmare closer to reality after Trump's call with Putin’, published in The Straits Times on February 14, 2025. We see nothing in them but confusion at the prospect of restarting US-Russian dialogue formats.
The author's fears, which, incidentally, he is trying to instill in his readers, were best answered by Sergey Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, at a joint press conference with Sirojiddin Mukhriddin, Foreign Minister of Tajikistan, on 13 February 2025.
The Minister said literally the following:
“From the way the world froze after Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin spoke by telephone, it is clear that the West has been taking for granted everything that is happening in Ukraine, what Vladimir Zelensky’s Nazi regime is doing. “So, this is the way you deal with Russia.” That is probably why many in the West, starting with the European Union leaders, were stunned by a normal, basic conversation between two well-mannered, polite people who do not put their differences aside. They have their disagreements, but they realise that politics is about sitting down and talking, and finding common ground.
Regrettably, the reaction in the West shows that there are practically no such people left there. Two well-mannered men have just shown the world how politics should be done. I just hope that this will make those who have forgotten how it is done come to their senses, and re-read their history books as well as political science books.”
We don't think there's a better answer.
🕊1
Media is too big
VIEW IN TELEGRAM
#Victory80
🏅 On February 14, 1943, the Red Army liberated the city of Rostov-on-Don from the Nazi invaders.
#RostovOnDon was occupied twice during the Great Patriotic War. The Nazis took the city in November 1941, and later it was under the enemy occupation again from July 22, 1942 to February 14, 1943. The Germans were determined to hold the city at any costs as it was an important transport hub in the region and a huge administrative centre opening the way for the Nazis to the Caucasus.
🌟 In February 1943, the Red Army carried out the Rostov offensive operation to liberate the city, defeat the enemy’s army group on the Don River and thus block the Wehrmacht units’ redeployment to #Donbass.
The Soviet 28th Army under the command of Lieutenant General Vasily Gerasimenko reached the outskirts of Rostov-on-Don following a 600-kilometre march across snow-covered southern steppes.
Four Nazi divisions were concentrated in Rostov-on-Don. The enemy had built there strong defence lines with robust fortifications and numerous machine-gun and artillery firing points.
The Red Army offensive was also complicated by the terrain: the right bank of the Don River, where the city is located, was much higher than the left bank, from which the Soviet forces were launching their attack. The penetration of the enemy defences in the city seemed impossible.
⚔️ In the early hours of February 8, 1943, the Southern Front forces led by Colonel-General Rodion Malinovsky launched the operation to liberate Rostov-on-Don. The Nazi-occupied city saw brutal, fierce fighting that lasted for six days. On February 14, 1943, the Red Army broke through the enemy’s defences and entered the city from Bataysk. The German garrison was encircled and forced to surrender.
Rostov-on-Don’s pre-war population of more than 1.5 million people was effectively decimated by #WWII and the German occupation, dwindling to 150'000. The Nazis also destroyed there the local industries, looted and captured its cultural heritage.
Thanks to the heroism and unrivalled morale of the Red Army soldiers, Rostov-on-Don was finally liberated after 205 days of occupation. During the Rostov offensive, the Soviet forces not only liberated the Rostov Region, but also took a bridgehead near the Mius River to use it in a further offensive in the direction of Donbass.
#OurVictory #WeRemember
#RostovOnDon was occupied twice during the Great Patriotic War. The Nazis took the city in November 1941, and later it was under the enemy occupation again from July 22, 1942 to February 14, 1943. The Germans were determined to hold the city at any costs as it was an important transport hub in the region and a huge administrative centre opening the way for the Nazis to the Caucasus.
The Soviet 28th Army under the command of Lieutenant General Vasily Gerasimenko reached the outskirts of Rostov-on-Don following a 600-kilometre march across snow-covered southern steppes.
Four Nazi divisions were concentrated in Rostov-on-Don. The enemy had built there strong defence lines with robust fortifications and numerous machine-gun and artillery firing points.
The Red Army offensive was also complicated by the terrain: the right bank of the Don River, where the city is located, was much higher than the left bank, from which the Soviet forces were launching their attack. The penetration of the enemy defences in the city seemed impossible.
⚔️ In the early hours of February 8, 1943, the Southern Front forces led by Colonel-General Rodion Malinovsky launched the operation to liberate Rostov-on-Don. The Nazi-occupied city saw brutal, fierce fighting that lasted for six days. On February 14, 1943, the Red Army broke through the enemy’s defences and entered the city from Bataysk. The German garrison was encircled and forced to surrender.
Rostov-on-Don’s pre-war population of more than 1.5 million people was effectively decimated by #WWII and the German occupation, dwindling to 150'000. The Nazis also destroyed there the local industries, looted and captured its cultural heritage.
Thanks to the heroism and unrivalled morale of the Red Army soldiers, Rostov-on-Don was finally liberated after 205 days of occupation. During the Rostov offensive, the Soviet forces not only liberated the Rostov Region, but also took a bridgehead near the Mius River to use it in a further offensive in the direction of Donbass.
#OurVictory #WeRemember
Please open Telegram to view this post
VIEW IN TELEGRAM
⚡️ On Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s telephone conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio
🇷🇺🇺🇸📞 On February 15, at the initiative of the American Side, Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had a telephone conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Building on the February 12 telephone conversation between the Presidents of Russia and the United States, the two Foreign Ministers agreed to maintain an open channel of communication to address longstanding issues in Russian-American relations. Their goal is to remove unilateral barriers inherited from the previous US administration that have hindered mutually beneficial trade, economic and investment cooperation.
Both Sides expressed a shared commitment to engaging on key international issues, including the Ukraine settlement, developments in Palestine and the broader Middle East, as well as other regional matters.
The conversation also covered ways to swiftly reverse the restrictions on Russian diplomatic missions in the United States, which were introduced by the Obama administration in 2016 and led to reciprocal measures. It was agreed that expert-level meetings will be organised in the near future to coordinate specific steps towards removing these obstacles to the functioning of diplomatic missions in Russia and the United States.
❗️ Sergey Lavrov and Marco Rubio reaffirmed their readiness to restore a respectful and constructive interstate dialogue in line with the approach set by the Presidents. They agreed to maintain regular contact, including discussions on preparations for a potential high-level Russian-American summit.
🇷🇺🇺🇸📞 On February 15, at the initiative of the American Side, Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had a telephone conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Building on the February 12 telephone conversation between the Presidents of Russia and the United States, the two Foreign Ministers agreed to maintain an open channel of communication to address longstanding issues in Russian-American relations. Their goal is to remove unilateral barriers inherited from the previous US administration that have hindered mutually beneficial trade, economic and investment cooperation.
Both Sides expressed a shared commitment to engaging on key international issues, including the Ukraine settlement, developments in Palestine and the broader Middle East, as well as other regional matters.
The conversation also covered ways to swiftly reverse the restrictions on Russian diplomatic missions in the United States, which were introduced by the Obama administration in 2016 and led to reciprocal measures. It was agreed that expert-level meetings will be organised in the near future to coordinate specific steps towards removing these obstacles to the functioning of diplomatic missions in Russia and the United States.
❗️ Sergey Lavrov and Marco Rubio reaffirmed their readiness to restore a respectful and constructive interstate dialogue in line with the approach set by the Presidents. They agreed to maintain regular contact, including discussions on preparations for a potential high-level Russian-American summit.
❤1👎1
🌏 Русское географическое общество (РГО) проводит конкурс на соискание национальной премии «Хрустальный компас».
🧭 Премия «Хрустальный компас» вручается за достижения в области национальной географии, экологии, а также сохранения и популяризации природного и историко-культурного наследия.
Принять участие могут:
• отечественные и зарубежные общественные организации;
• научные и образовательные учреждения;
• творческие союзы;
• предприятия различных сфер;
• независимые инициативные группы;
• общественные деятели и другие частные лица.
Цель премии заключается в поиске уникальных, перспективных достижений и реализованных проектов, которые могли бы способствовать развитию профессионального сообщества, исследовательской деятельности,а также служить примером для всех людей.
В премии представлены 11 номинаций.
⏰ Конкурсные работы принимаются до 20 февраля 2025 года.
С подробной информацией можно ознакомиться на сайте мероприятия 👉 rus-compass.ru
📷 Фото: РГО
🧭 Премия «Хрустальный компас» вручается за достижения в области национальной географии, экологии, а также сохранения и популяризации природного и историко-культурного наследия.
Принять участие могут:
• отечественные и зарубежные общественные организации;
• научные и образовательные учреждения;
• творческие союзы;
• предприятия различных сфер;
• независимые инициативные группы;
• общественные деятели и другие частные лица.
Цель премии заключается в поиске уникальных, перспективных достижений и реализованных проектов, которые могли бы способствовать развитию профессионального сообщества, исследовательской деятельности,а также служить примером для всех людей.
В премии представлены 11 номинаций.
⏰ Конкурсные работы принимаются до 20 февраля 2025 года.
С подробной информацией можно ознакомиться на сайте мероприятия 👉 rus-compass.ru
📷 Фото: РГО
Embassy comment
We have read another piece by Jonathan Eyal titled ‘Outlook is grim as Europe scrambles to face Russia alone’, published in the Straits Times on February 18.
We would like to express our opinion.
We are convinced that the problems of today's Europe are rooted in the fact that it has unhesitatingly followed the course of supporting the previous US administration's plans to launch a hybrid war against Russia, which included pumping weapons and military equipment into the neo-Nazi Zelensky regime, which were then used by extremists to murder Russians, destroy and cancel everything Russian. At the same time, Moscow’s earlier proposal to create a system of equal and indivisible security in Europe and to enshrine it in law and binding agreements was rejected. The grim consequences of this step are obvious. There is no need to look for other culprits or to attribute aggressive aspirations and imperial ambitions to Russia.
Those who are sincerely looking for a way out of this situation would be well advised to take a closer look at Russia’s vision of the concept of Eurasian security – equal and indivisible, inclusive, organised on the principle ‘regional problems require regional solutions’. It is confidently replacing the failed Euro-Atlantic formulas for maintaining stability on the continent. The economic basis of this new layout will be the Greater Eurasian Partnership comprising the SCO, EAEU and ASEAN. We stress that Russia's vision of continental security has an open architecture.
Those who have the good will should think twice. It is not too late...
We have read another piece by Jonathan Eyal titled ‘Outlook is grim as Europe scrambles to face Russia alone’, published in the Straits Times on February 18.
We would like to express our opinion.
We are convinced that the problems of today's Europe are rooted in the fact that it has unhesitatingly followed the course of supporting the previous US administration's plans to launch a hybrid war against Russia, which included pumping weapons and military equipment into the neo-Nazi Zelensky regime, which were then used by extremists to murder Russians, destroy and cancel everything Russian. At the same time, Moscow’s earlier proposal to create a system of equal and indivisible security in Europe and to enshrine it in law and binding agreements was rejected. The grim consequences of this step are obvious. There is no need to look for other culprits or to attribute aggressive aspirations and imperial ambitions to Russia.
Those who are sincerely looking for a way out of this situation would be well advised to take a closer look at Russia’s vision of the concept of Eurasian security – equal and indivisible, inclusive, organised on the principle ‘regional problems require regional solutions’. It is confidently replacing the failed Euro-Atlantic formulas for maintaining stability on the continent. The economic basis of this new layout will be the Greater Eurasian Partnership comprising the SCO, EAEU and ASEAN. We stress that Russia's vision of continental security has an open architecture.
Those who have the good will should think twice. It is not too late...
On February 17, 2025, a meeting of the active members of the compatriot movement in Singapore took place at the Embassy of Russia in Singapore with the support of Rossotrudnichestvo. The event included representatives from the "Russian Cultural Club" and Russian Orthodox Church in Singapore, including Bishop Pitirim of Jakarta. The meeting was led by the Russian Ambassador to Singapore, Nikolay Kudashev. During the discussion, participants addressed steps to support the Russian language and culture, as well as preparations for the celebration of the 80th anniversary of Victory Day in the Great Patriotic War.
17 февраля с.г. в Посольстве при содействии Россотрудничества состоялась встреча актива соотечественного движения в Сингапуре, включая «Русский культурный клуб» и представителя прихода РПЦ в Сингапуре епископа Джакартского Питирима. Мероприятие возглавил Посол России в Сингапуре Н.Р.Кудашев. В ходе встречи обсуждались шаги по поддержке русского языка и культуры, а также подготовка празднования 80-летия Дня Победы в Великой Отечественной войне.
17 февраля с.г. в Посольстве при содействии Россотрудничества состоялась встреча актива соотечественного движения в Сингапуре, включая «Русский культурный клуб» и представителя прихода РПЦ в Сингапуре епископа Джакартского Питирима. Мероприятие возглавил Посол России в Сингапуре Н.Р.Кудашев. В ходе встречи обсуждались шаги по поддержке русского языка и культуры, а также подготовка празднования 80-летия Дня Победы в Великой Отечественной войне.
🇷🇺🇺🇸 Press release on Russia-US consultations (February 18, 2025)
⚡️ In accordance with the agreement between President Vladimir Putin and President Donald Trump to step up contacts to discuss international issues and bilateral agenda, on February 18, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov held talks in Riyadh with a US delegation represented by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Adviser Michael Waltz, and US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff.
The participants discussed a broad range of issues, including prospects for normalising bilateral relations. The sides agreed to appoint respective ambassadors as soon as possible, and to start consultations at the level of deputy foreign ministers to remove restrictions on activities of the diplomatic missions of the two countries.
The Sides agreed to establish a dialogue to identify ways to resume cooperation in the economy, including energy, outer space exploration, and other areas of mutual interest.
The Sides exchanged views on the situation surrounding Ukraine and reiterated their mutual commitment to settle the conflict.
❗️ The Russian side emphasised the importance of eliminating the root causes of the conflict, creating proper conditions for achieving a lasting and enduring peace, and ensuring security and legitimate interests of all countries in the region. An agreement was reached to continue joint work in this area through special envoys to be appointed in the near future.
The Sides agreed to resume communication channels to discuss other international issues, being mindful of Russia and the United States’ special responsibility in matters of peace and security as nuclear powers and permanent members of the UN Security Council. The interest in continuing joint work to prepare the meeting between the Russian and American presidents was confirmed.
During their stay in Riyadh, Sergey Lavrov and Yury Ushakov were received by Chairman of the Council of Ministers of Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud. They expressed gratitude for the excellent organisation of #RussiaUS talks. The participants discussed matters related to implementing the agreements on comprehensive expansion of bilateral relations reached by President Vladimir Putin and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
⚡️ In accordance with the agreement between President Vladimir Putin and President Donald Trump to step up contacts to discuss international issues and bilateral agenda, on February 18, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov held talks in Riyadh with a US delegation represented by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Adviser Michael Waltz, and US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff.
The participants discussed a broad range of issues, including prospects for normalising bilateral relations. The sides agreed to appoint respective ambassadors as soon as possible, and to start consultations at the level of deputy foreign ministers to remove restrictions on activities of the diplomatic missions of the two countries.
The Sides agreed to establish a dialogue to identify ways to resume cooperation in the economy, including energy, outer space exploration, and other areas of mutual interest.
The Sides exchanged views on the situation surrounding Ukraine and reiterated their mutual commitment to settle the conflict.
❗️ The Russian side emphasised the importance of eliminating the root causes of the conflict, creating proper conditions for achieving a lasting and enduring peace, and ensuring security and legitimate interests of all countries in the region. An agreement was reached to continue joint work in this area through special envoys to be appointed in the near future.
The Sides agreed to resume communication channels to discuss other international issues, being mindful of Russia and the United States’ special responsibility in matters of peace and security as nuclear powers and permanent members of the UN Security Council. The interest in continuing joint work to prepare the meeting between the Russian and American presidents was confirmed.
During their stay in Riyadh, Sergey Lavrov and Yury Ushakov were received by Chairman of the Council of Ministers of Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud. They expressed gratitude for the excellent organisation of #RussiaUS talks. The participants discussed matters related to implementing the agreements on comprehensive expansion of bilateral relations reached by President Vladimir Putin and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
President Vladimir Putin's answers to questions from media representatives
Question: Interfax News Agency. Everyone is interested in the outcomes of talks in Riyadh. I am sure they have been reported to you. How do you assess them? Is there a positive result, if I may put it that way, from these talks?
President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Yes, they have been reported to me. That’s point number one. Number two, I rate them high, there is a result.
The first thing I would like to say is that we have agreed to resume normal operation of our respective diplomatic missions. The unending expulsions of diplomats from Washington DC and Moscow do not do anything good to anyone. If things keep going that way, we will end up with just cleaners working in those buildings. Their work is important, of course, but it is not what diplomatic missions are created for. That is my first point.
Second, I believe we have made the first step to resume work across a variety of areas of mutual interest, including the Middle East in the broad sense of the word – I mean our presence in Syria, the Palestinian-Israeli settlement, and so on. There are many issues there that involve both the United States and the Russian Federation, even though, of course, the situation in Ukraine is our priority.
But we also have other matters to consider such as the economy, and our joint activities on global energy markets. So, in general… Yes, outer space too, of course, because despite the problems of the past three years, we are still working together in outer space, and US astronauts and Russian cosmonauts are working on the ISS. Work continues, and prospects are good. All of that was reviewed at the meeting in Riyadh. The assessment is positive.
Overall, as I was told, the atmosphere was very friendly. As I was told by the participants from our side, unlike US representatives we dealt with earlier, these people from the American side were open for negotiation without any bias or condemnation of what has been done in the past. In any case, there was nothing like that in the bilateral contacts.
Question: Interfax News Agency. Everyone is interested in the outcomes of talks in Riyadh. I am sure they have been reported to you. How do you assess them? Is there a positive result, if I may put it that way, from these talks?
President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Yes, they have been reported to me. That’s point number one. Number two, I rate them high, there is a result.
The first thing I would like to say is that we have agreed to resume normal operation of our respective diplomatic missions. The unending expulsions of diplomats from Washington DC and Moscow do not do anything good to anyone. If things keep going that way, we will end up with just cleaners working in those buildings. Their work is important, of course, but it is not what diplomatic missions are created for. That is my first point.
Second, I believe we have made the first step to resume work across a variety of areas of mutual interest, including the Middle East in the broad sense of the word – I mean our presence in Syria, the Palestinian-Israeli settlement, and so on. There are many issues there that involve both the United States and the Russian Federation, even though, of course, the situation in Ukraine is our priority.
But we also have other matters to consider such as the economy, and our joint activities on global energy markets. So, in general… Yes, outer space too, of course, because despite the problems of the past three years, we are still working together in outer space, and US astronauts and Russian cosmonauts are working on the ISS. Work continues, and prospects are good. All of that was reviewed at the meeting in Riyadh. The assessment is positive.
Overall, as I was told, the atmosphere was very friendly. As I was told by the participants from our side, unlike US representatives we dealt with earlier, these people from the American side were open for negotiation without any bias or condemnation of what has been done in the past. In any case, there was nothing like that in the bilateral contacts.
On February 19, a ‘Government Hour’ with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on the priorities of the foreign policy of the Russian Federation was held as part of a plenary meeting of the State Duma.
The foreign minister informed the parliamentarians about the key areas of the Russian diplomacy’s efforts in the context of the current geopolitical realities and the Ministry’s tasks to protect national interests and strengthen the country’s leading positions on the global stage.
The list of issues raised at the meeting included settling the conflict around Ukraine, initiatives to create a Eurasian security architecture and combat neocolonialism, cooperation within the Union State, the CSTO, the EAEU, the CIS, the SCO, expanding multifaceted interaction with all sensible partners and, above all, with the states of the Global Majority, countering the hegemonic aspirations of the West, protecting the rights and interests of Russian citizens and compatriots abroad.
Following the discussion, Sergey Lavrov highlighted the importance of further deepening the regular dialogue with elected representatives that contributes to the effective implementation of the unified foreign policy of the Russian Federation, which enjoys consensus support.
The foreign minister informed the parliamentarians about the key areas of the Russian diplomacy’s efforts in the context of the current geopolitical realities and the Ministry’s tasks to protect national interests and strengthen the country’s leading positions on the global stage.
The list of issues raised at the meeting included settling the conflict around Ukraine, initiatives to create a Eurasian security architecture and combat neocolonialism, cooperation within the Union State, the CSTO, the EAEU, the CIS, the SCO, expanding multifaceted interaction with all sensible partners and, above all, with the states of the Global Majority, countering the hegemonic aspirations of the West, protecting the rights and interests of Russian citizens and compatriots abroad.
Following the discussion, Sergey Lavrov highlighted the importance of further deepening the regular dialogue with elected representatives that contributes to the effective implementation of the unified foreign policy of the Russian Federation, which enjoys consensus support.
🗓On February 19, Jakarta 🇮🇩 hosted the 21st ASEAN-Russia Senior Officials' Meeting (#ARSOM).
🔹️The meeting was co-chaired by the Deputy Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation H.E. Mr. Andrey Rudenko 🇷🇺 and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar H.E. Mr. Aung Kyaw Moe 🇲🇲.
🔹 Participants discussed ways and means of further promoting the ASEAN-Russia Strategic Partnership with an emphasis on such priority areas as science and technology, digitalization, energy, and the development of smart cities.
🔹️Specific steps were outlined to further diversify practical cooperation. Particular attention was paid to the prospects for launching new joint mechanisms and initiatives, in particular, in the field of youth ties and biological security. Both sides expressed their commitment to further enhancing the ASEAN-Russia Strategic Partnership under the forthcoming Comprehensive Plan of Action for 2026-2030.
🔹The meeting reiterated shared intention to jointly address challenges and threats, strengthen ASEAN-led regional security architecture in Asia-Pacific. Issues of promoting cross-platform links between #ASEAN, #EEU and #SCO were also on the agenda.
🔹️On the sidelines of the ARSOM an Exhibition "ASEAN-Russia: prospects of cooperation in civilian nuclear energy and technologies" was opened at the ASEAN Headquarters.
#ASEANRussia #RussiaASEAN #ARSOM
🔹️The meeting was co-chaired by the Deputy Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation H.E. Mr. Andrey Rudenko 🇷🇺 and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar H.E. Mr. Aung Kyaw Moe 🇲🇲.
🔹 Participants discussed ways and means of further promoting the ASEAN-Russia Strategic Partnership with an emphasis on such priority areas as science and technology, digitalization, energy, and the development of smart cities.
🔹️Specific steps were outlined to further diversify practical cooperation. Particular attention was paid to the prospects for launching new joint mechanisms and initiatives, in particular, in the field of youth ties and biological security. Both sides expressed their commitment to further enhancing the ASEAN-Russia Strategic Partnership under the forthcoming Comprehensive Plan of Action for 2026-2030.
🔹The meeting reiterated shared intention to jointly address challenges and threats, strengthen ASEAN-led regional security architecture in Asia-Pacific. Issues of promoting cross-platform links between #ASEAN, #EEU and #SCO were also on the agenda.
🔹️On the sidelines of the ARSOM an Exhibition "ASEAN-Russia: prospects of cooperation in civilian nuclear energy and technologies" was opened at the ASEAN Headquarters.
#ASEANRussia #RussiaASEAN #ARSOM
🇷🇺🇨🇳 On February 20, Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Foreign Minister of the People’s Republic of China Wang Yi met on the sidelines of the #G20 Ministerial in Johannesburg.
The Parties praised the development of political dialogue and practical cooperation between Russia and China as a stabilising factor in the context of continuing turbulence of the global system.
Special focus was placed on the work to ensure the implementation of the agreements reached between the two countries’ heads and preparations for the upcoming Russian-Chinese contacts at the high and highest levels in 2025.
An in-depth discussion was held on global and regional problems, such as Eurasian security, developments in the Middle East and the Asia-Pacific Region, relations with the US, and Ukrainian crisis.
🇺🇳 The Foreign Ministers discussed the two countries’ cooperation within the UN and other international organisations and in various multilateral formats.
☝️ Wang Yi stressed that, while promoting initiatives for a peaceful settlement of the Ukrainian crisis, Beijing believes it necessary to eradicate its root causes in accordance with the corresponding principles of the UN Charter, above all unconditional respect for human rights.
Special focus was placed on the #G20’s activities to build an equal dialogue between representatives of the Global Majority and the West in the financial and economic sphere based on everyone complying with the G20 mandate.
The Ministers also compared their approaches on issues related to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and #BRICS.
The conversation was held in the traditionally confidential and constructive spirit that characterises Russian-Chinese strategic partnership.#RussiaChina
The Parties praised the development of political dialogue and practical cooperation between Russia and China as a stabilising factor in the context of continuing turbulence of the global system.
Special focus was placed on the work to ensure the implementation of the agreements reached between the two countries’ heads and preparations for the upcoming Russian-Chinese contacts at the high and highest levels in 2025.
An in-depth discussion was held on global and regional problems, such as Eurasian security, developments in the Middle East and the Asia-Pacific Region, relations with the US, and Ukrainian crisis.
🇺🇳 The Foreign Ministers discussed the two countries’ cooperation within the UN and other international organisations and in various multilateral formats.
☝️ Wang Yi stressed that, while promoting initiatives for a peaceful settlement of the Ukrainian crisis, Beijing believes it necessary to eradicate its root causes in accordance with the corresponding principles of the UN Charter, above all unconditional respect for human rights.
Special focus was placed on the #G20’s activities to build an equal dialogue between representatives of the Global Majority and the West in the financial and economic sphere based on everyone complying with the G20 mandate.
The Ministers also compared their approaches on issues related to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and #BRICS.
The conversation was held in the traditionally confidential and constructive spirit that characterises Russian-Chinese strategic partnership.#RussiaChina
👍1
🇷🇺🇲🇲 On February 21, 2025, Russian Ambassador to Singapore H.E. Mr Nikolay Kudashev received Chargé d’Affaires of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar in Singapore, Mr Zaw Zaw Soe, for a farewell courtesy call.
During the meeting, they discussed the current state and prospects of bilateral cooperation, as well as key regional issues.
The Russian Ambassador expressed his appreciation for Mr Zaw Zaw Soe’s contribution to strengthening Russia-Myanmar relations and wished him success in his future endeavors.
During the meeting, they discussed the current state and prospects of bilateral cooperation, as well as key regional issues.
The Russian Ambassador expressed his appreciation for Mr Zaw Zaw Soe’s contribution to strengthening Russia-Myanmar relations and wished him success in his future endeavors.
🔥4
🎙 Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s remarks at the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on the G20’s objectives in 2025, a discussion of planned results of South Africa’s Presidency and an assessment of the forum’s activities (Johannesburg, February 21, 2025)
💬 In conditions of global economic fragmentation, a dialogue on global issues in the #G20 remains in high demand as never before. We commend the Republic of South Africa’s substantial preparations for the forum and the topicality of chosen thematic priorities. We are particularly impressed with the emphasis on a search for a common denominator in the interests of combining efforts to facilitate sustained growth and development.
We still have a long way to go for attaining the desired results, and the overall background for joint work in conditions of geopolitical confrontation, that is being incited, remains unfavourable. The statistics are well-known: We are lagging far behind a schedule for achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals until 2030, and only 17% of them are on track. <...>
Historical experience shows that it is impossible to independently cope with common challenges and threats. This is why the G20 was established in 2008 at the level of national leaders. At that time, it was necessary to put out the fire of a global financial crisis in emergency circumstances. It became possible to stabilise markets for a while.
❗️ However, we are now witnessing an entire cascade of intertwined crises. Behind them are armed conflicts that have been unleashed and inspired by the West, trade, technological and hybrid wars, the demolition of the international trade system, the weaponisation of the dollar that has turned into a tool for manipulations. <...>
☝️ Nevertheless, the modern world is being transformed drastically and becoming truly multipolar. The 500-year period of Western domination is irreversibly becoming a thing of the past. It is necessary to find the strength and to accept this objective reality. The international community does not want to be hostage to unilateral decisions of former sovereigns. This is particularly obvious today when we are celebrating the 80th Anniversary of Victory in the war against Nazism and the 65th anniversary of the UN Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples as a starting point of acquiring independence by Africa, Asia and the entire Global South.
In 2022, #BRICS confidently outpaced the G7 in terms of GDP. Today, BRICS and the G7 account for 37 and 29 percent of the global GDP, respectively. <...>
During Russia’s #BRICS Chairmanship at the Kazan Summit in 2024, the participants adopted multiple promising decisions to launch non-discriminatory, independent of anyone’s whim mechanisms stimulating investment and trade, with due consideration for Africa’s special needs.
The neo-liberal circles in the West regard the objective process of burgeoning multipolarity as a challenge rather than an opportunity. They are putting an absurd stake on a confrontation, on inflicting a “strategic defeat” on rivals. In so doing, they use neocolonialist practices <...>
Under these circumstances, G20 retains its status as a useful venue for aligning the interests of states with different strategies and development levels, this primarily due to the efforts of BRICS countries. <...>
🤝We share South Africa’s plans to survey the G20 activities over past years. We hope that the result will enable us to reaffirm our commitment to de-politicised interaction based on the unshakeable principle of consensus with an eye to implementing the task to ensure a sustainable and comprehensive economic growth, a task set back in 2009. This would be a worthy result of Africa’s first ever G20 Summit.
Read in full
💬 In conditions of global economic fragmentation, a dialogue on global issues in the #G20 remains in high demand as never before. We commend the Republic of South Africa’s substantial preparations for the forum and the topicality of chosen thematic priorities. We are particularly impressed with the emphasis on a search for a common denominator in the interests of combining efforts to facilitate sustained growth and development.
We still have a long way to go for attaining the desired results, and the overall background for joint work in conditions of geopolitical confrontation, that is being incited, remains unfavourable. The statistics are well-known: We are lagging far behind a schedule for achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals until 2030, and only 17% of them are on track. <...>
Historical experience shows that it is impossible to independently cope with common challenges and threats. This is why the G20 was established in 2008 at the level of national leaders. At that time, it was necessary to put out the fire of a global financial crisis in emergency circumstances. It became possible to stabilise markets for a while.
❗️ However, we are now witnessing an entire cascade of intertwined crises. Behind them are armed conflicts that have been unleashed and inspired by the West, trade, technological and hybrid wars, the demolition of the international trade system, the weaponisation of the dollar that has turned into a tool for manipulations. <...>
☝️ Nevertheless, the modern world is being transformed drastically and becoming truly multipolar. The 500-year period of Western domination is irreversibly becoming a thing of the past. It is necessary to find the strength and to accept this objective reality. The international community does not want to be hostage to unilateral decisions of former sovereigns. This is particularly obvious today when we are celebrating the 80th Anniversary of Victory in the war against Nazism and the 65th anniversary of the UN Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples as a starting point of acquiring independence by Africa, Asia and the entire Global South.
In 2022, #BRICS confidently outpaced the G7 in terms of GDP. Today, BRICS and the G7 account for 37 and 29 percent of the global GDP, respectively. <...>
During Russia’s #BRICS Chairmanship at the Kazan Summit in 2024, the participants adopted multiple promising decisions to launch non-discriminatory, independent of anyone’s whim mechanisms stimulating investment and trade, with due consideration for Africa’s special needs.
The neo-liberal circles in the West regard the objective process of burgeoning multipolarity as a challenge rather than an opportunity. They are putting an absurd stake on a confrontation, on inflicting a “strategic defeat” on rivals. In so doing, they use neocolonialist practices <...>
Under these circumstances, G20 retains its status as a useful venue for aligning the interests of states with different strategies and development levels, this primarily due to the efforts of BRICS countries. <...>
🤝We share South Africa’s plans to survey the G20 activities over past years. We hope that the result will enable us to reaffirm our commitment to de-politicised interaction based on the unshakeable principle of consensus with an eye to implementing the task to ensure a sustainable and comprehensive economic growth, a task set back in 2009. This would be a worthy result of Africa’s first ever G20 Summit.
Read in full
🔥1
🇷🇺 Reception on the Occasion of Russia’s Defender of the Fatherland Day
On February 20, 2025, the Russian Embassy in Singapore hosted a reception to mark the Defender of the Fatherland Day. H.E. Nikolay Kudashev, Ambassador of Russia to Singapore, and Military Attaché Col. Alexey Ignashov addressed the distinguished guests.
In his speech, Ambassador Kudashev emphasized the historical significance of the day, paying tribute to generations of Russian defenders who safeguarded the country’s sovereignty. He also highlighted this year’s special milestone — the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, underscoring the importance of preserving historical truth and peace.
Ambassador noted: “In Russia, the strength and power of the Armed forces have always gone hand in hand with a peaceful foreign policy. And today this is more true than ever. Our army and navy build are liable barrier against those who still expect to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia in the hybrid war unleashed from the territory of Ukraine, who still hope to turn history back to the days of colonialism, dictation and coercion”.
Col. Ignashov spoke about the role of the Russia’s Armed Forces in ensuring national and global security.
Guests had the opportunity to watch a film about Russia’s modern military, explore a thematic exhibition, and enjoy Russian cuisine.
The Reception was attended by Ambassadors and foreign diplomats, military and business representatives.
On February 20, 2025, the Russian Embassy in Singapore hosted a reception to mark the Defender of the Fatherland Day. H.E. Nikolay Kudashev, Ambassador of Russia to Singapore, and Military Attaché Col. Alexey Ignashov addressed the distinguished guests.
In his speech, Ambassador Kudashev emphasized the historical significance of the day, paying tribute to generations of Russian defenders who safeguarded the country’s sovereignty. He also highlighted this year’s special milestone — the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, underscoring the importance of preserving historical truth and peace.
Ambassador noted: “In Russia, the strength and power of the Armed forces have always gone hand in hand with a peaceful foreign policy. And today this is more true than ever. Our army and navy build are liable barrier against those who still expect to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia in the hybrid war unleashed from the territory of Ukraine, who still hope to turn history back to the days of colonialism, dictation and coercion”.
Col. Ignashov spoke about the role of the Russia’s Armed Forces in ensuring national and global security.
Guests had the opportunity to watch a film about Russia’s modern military, explore a thematic exhibition, and enjoy Russian cuisine.
The Reception was attended by Ambassadors and foreign diplomats, military and business representatives.
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🎙 Greetings of President Vladimir Putin on Defender of the Fatherland Day (February 23, 2025)
💬 Comrades and friends, veterans, active military and civilian personnel of the Armed Forces, and everyone who has gone through severe trials on the battlefield, please accept my most heartfelt greetings on Defender of the Fatherland Day.
On this day, deep respect and the warmest words go to our soldiers and officers participating in the special military operation, who are risking their lives today, valiantly and courageously defending their native land, the national interests and the future of Russia. It is you who are the main heroes of Defender of the Fatherland Day, which our entire country is celebrating today.
This holiday embodies all the love and respect that our nation has for our army and navy, for people who have made military service their profession and their high calling, for everyone who has made their choice today to stand by the Motherland and defend its interests. Military service has always been highly regarded in Russia; it has always been a matter of honour. Our own history fosters our patriotic feelings that are passed on from generation to generation.
We are guided by the centuries-old victorious traditions of the Russian army; we look up to the valour, faith and courage of our ancestors who fought on the ice of Lake Peipus and on Kulikovo Field, who defended Moscow in the 16th century and safeguarded our statehood during the Time of Troubles; who triumphed at Poltava, covered themselves in glory in the Battle of Borodino, defended Sevastopol during the Crimean War, showed unparallelled courage in the Battle of Galicia and other WWI battles, and who performed a truly heroic deed during WWII by defeating Nazism and storming Berlin, and celebrated the Victory there in May 1945.
This year, which marks the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory, has been declared the Year of the Defender of the Fatherland in Russia. We pay tribute to the unwavering and undaunted generation of victors, to the memory of their heroism and sacrifice, and the epoch-making Victory that they gave to the world. We celebrate the heroes who honourably continue the military labours of their ancestors on the battlefield today.
We realise how hard it is for you right now, and we proudly support you. I want to thank all participants in the special military operation for their strong spirit and determination to bring us victory. I am grateful to all defenders of Russia for their honest and impeccable service to the Motherland and to our nation.
Comrades,
Today, as the world is changing impetuously, our strategic course for strengthening and developing the Armed Forces remains unchanged. We will continue to build up the combat potential of the army and navy, and their combat effectiveness as the essential part of Russia’s security that guarantees its sovereign present and future, and its consistent development.
Our absolute priority today is supplying the troops fighting in the special military operation with the provisions and equipment they need. Based on the analysis of the tactical use of the weapons and equipment, we will continue to provide the Armed Forces with new state-of-the-art models. Our focus will also be on improving the social security of our military personnel.
I am confident that Russian fighters will continue to protect their home country and their people diligently.
My best wishes go to your families and loved ones who are waiting for you to return home.
Happy Defender of the Fatherland Day! I wish you success in service for the benefit of our great nation.
💬 Comrades and friends, veterans, active military and civilian personnel of the Armed Forces, and everyone who has gone through severe trials on the battlefield, please accept my most heartfelt greetings on Defender of the Fatherland Day.
On this day, deep respect and the warmest words go to our soldiers and officers participating in the special military operation, who are risking their lives today, valiantly and courageously defending their native land, the national interests and the future of Russia. It is you who are the main heroes of Defender of the Fatherland Day, which our entire country is celebrating today.
This holiday embodies all the love and respect that our nation has for our army and navy, for people who have made military service their profession and their high calling, for everyone who has made their choice today to stand by the Motherland and defend its interests. Military service has always been highly regarded in Russia; it has always been a matter of honour. Our own history fosters our patriotic feelings that are passed on from generation to generation.
We are guided by the centuries-old victorious traditions of the Russian army; we look up to the valour, faith and courage of our ancestors who fought on the ice of Lake Peipus and on Kulikovo Field, who defended Moscow in the 16th century and safeguarded our statehood during the Time of Troubles; who triumphed at Poltava, covered themselves in glory in the Battle of Borodino, defended Sevastopol during the Crimean War, showed unparallelled courage in the Battle of Galicia and other WWI battles, and who performed a truly heroic deed during WWII by defeating Nazism and storming Berlin, and celebrated the Victory there in May 1945.
This year, which marks the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory, has been declared the Year of the Defender of the Fatherland in Russia. We pay tribute to the unwavering and undaunted generation of victors, to the memory of their heroism and sacrifice, and the epoch-making Victory that they gave to the world. We celebrate the heroes who honourably continue the military labours of their ancestors on the battlefield today.
We realise how hard it is for you right now, and we proudly support you. I want to thank all participants in the special military operation for their strong spirit and determination to bring us victory. I am grateful to all defenders of Russia for their honest and impeccable service to the Motherland and to our nation.
Comrades,
Today, as the world is changing impetuously, our strategic course for strengthening and developing the Armed Forces remains unchanged. We will continue to build up the combat potential of the army and navy, and their combat effectiveness as the essential part of Russia’s security that guarantees its sovereign present and future, and its consistent development.
Our absolute priority today is supplying the troops fighting in the special military operation with the provisions and equipment they need. Based on the analysis of the tactical use of the weapons and equipment, we will continue to provide the Armed Forces with new state-of-the-art models. Our focus will also be on improving the social security of our military personnel.
I am confident that Russian fighters will continue to protect their home country and their people diligently.
My best wishes go to your families and loved ones who are waiting for you to return home.
Happy Defender of the Fatherland Day! I wish you success in service for the benefit of our great nation.
👎1
Embassy comment
Another piece by Jonathan Eyal, published in today's issue of The Straits Times, leaves, to put it mildly, a shocking impression. It resembles a grotesque search for culprits and an attempt to find some explanation for the dramatic situation into which the Ukrainian crisis and the Collective West as a whole have driven Europe.
Let’s take a closer look. In our view, there is no need to search for other reasons or parties responsible for the current situation beyond the Europeans themselves, who aligned with the neo-Nazi regime in Kiev and the Biden administration at the time, actively instigating and waging hybrid warfare against Russia.
The only aspect of J.Eyal’s article one might agree with is its blood-chilling list of the consequences of this tragic course of action. These include the smoldering ruins of European security, thousands of lost lives, isolation and discord within the European community, economic turmoil, and more.
Meanwhile, viable alternatives existed. They were on the table in the form of Russian proposals for establishing a system of equal and indivisible security in Europe; they were voiced in Istanbul and later reiterated as the Russian ideas for a pan-continental Eurasian security framework. Only irresponsible politicians, out of touch with their people's needs, could ignore or dismiss them.
For our part, we would rather welcome the new US administration for facing the reality, reassessing the positions of its predecessor in the White House and moving toward a more responsible and pragmatic approach to resolving the Ukrainian crisis. However, ultimately, that remains its sovereign decision.
As far as Kiev and Europe are concerned, they should bear in mind that, since biblical times, stubbornness and a lack of faith have never led to anything good.
Another piece by Jonathan Eyal, published in today's issue of The Straits Times, leaves, to put it mildly, a shocking impression. It resembles a grotesque search for culprits and an attempt to find some explanation for the dramatic situation into which the Ukrainian crisis and the Collective West as a whole have driven Europe.
Let’s take a closer look. In our view, there is no need to search for other reasons or parties responsible for the current situation beyond the Europeans themselves, who aligned with the neo-Nazi regime in Kiev and the Biden administration at the time, actively instigating and waging hybrid warfare against Russia.
The only aspect of J.Eyal’s article one might agree with is its blood-chilling list of the consequences of this tragic course of action. These include the smoldering ruins of European security, thousands of lost lives, isolation and discord within the European community, economic turmoil, and more.
Meanwhile, viable alternatives existed. They were on the table in the form of Russian proposals for establishing a system of equal and indivisible security in Europe; they were voiced in Istanbul and later reiterated as the Russian ideas for a pan-continental Eurasian security framework. Only irresponsible politicians, out of touch with their people's needs, could ignore or dismiss them.
For our part, we would rather welcome the new US administration for facing the reality, reassessing the positions of its predecessor in the White House and moving toward a more responsible and pragmatic approach to resolving the Ukrainian crisis. However, ultimately, that remains its sovereign decision.
As far as Kiev and Europe are concerned, they should bear in mind that, since biblical times, stubbornness and a lack of faith have never led to anything good.
👍1