Exquisite Elegance: Celebrating Sarafan Designs – A Tribute to Russian Culture in Singapore
From March 7 to 9, 2025, the Goh Loo Club transformed into a true corner of Russia, where visitors immersed themselves in the beauty of traditional Russian attire. Organized by Russian House in Singapore, withthe support of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Singapore, as well as the Executive Chairman Mr Daryl Tan and its Honorary Chairman Mr Tan Dib Jib, this exhibition became a vibrant celebration of International Women’s Day.
Grand Opening – March 7
The event began with a special opening ceremony featuring a welcome speech by H.E. Nikolay Kudashev, Ambassador of Russia to Singapore. He highlighted the exhibition’s dedication to International Women’s Day and emphasized:
“The appearance and traditional dress of a Russian woman dress reflect the diverse cultural heritage of our homeland — a land where people of different ethnic, religious, and social backgrounds have long lived side by side. It is this unique ability to passionately synthesize diverse influences and forge a shared, unifying agenda that defines the Russian spirit, worldview, way of life, and culture.“
Highlights of the Exhibition
📸Photography Art Prints – Captivating portraits of women intraditional Russian attire by Yulia Durova.
👗Sarafans & Accessories – Exquisite collections by Anastasiia Novikova and Daria Rotast, admired by fashion enthusiasts.
🎶Folk Music – Beautifully recorded performances by Toloka Ensemble, bringing the essence of Russian traditions to life.
🍬Russian Souvenirs & Sweets – Delightful treatsfrom Anna’s Gourmet Shop, a favorite among visitors.
The event featured engaging lectures:
🔹March 8 – Designer Anastasiia Novikova spoke about the history of traditional Russian costumes, followed by a special kokoshnik try-on session—many guests were amazed by theirweight and intricate craftsmanship.
🔹March 9 – Daria Rotast gave an insightful lecture on Russian traditions and national attire, as well as performed Russian classical romance ballads.
From March 7 to 9, 2025, the Goh Loo Club transformed into a true corner of Russia, where visitors immersed themselves in the beauty of traditional Russian attire. Organized by Russian House in Singapore, withthe support of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Singapore, as well as the Executive Chairman Mr Daryl Tan and its Honorary Chairman Mr Tan Dib Jib, this exhibition became a vibrant celebration of International Women’s Day.
Grand Opening – March 7
The event began with a special opening ceremony featuring a welcome speech by H.E. Nikolay Kudashev, Ambassador of Russia to Singapore. He highlighted the exhibition’s dedication to International Women’s Day and emphasized:
“The appearance and traditional dress of a Russian woman dress reflect the diverse cultural heritage of our homeland — a land where people of different ethnic, religious, and social backgrounds have long lived side by side. It is this unique ability to passionately synthesize diverse influences and forge a shared, unifying agenda that defines the Russian spirit, worldview, way of life, and culture.“
Highlights of the Exhibition
📸Photography Art Prints – Captivating portraits of women intraditional Russian attire by Yulia Durova.
👗Sarafans & Accessories – Exquisite collections by Anastasiia Novikova and Daria Rotast, admired by fashion enthusiasts.
🎶Folk Music – Beautifully recorded performances by Toloka Ensemble, bringing the essence of Russian traditions to life.
🍬Russian Souvenirs & Sweets – Delightful treatsfrom Anna’s Gourmet Shop, a favorite among visitors.
The event featured engaging lectures:
🔹March 8 – Designer Anastasiia Novikova spoke about the history of traditional Russian costumes, followed by a special kokoshnik try-on session—many guests were amazed by theirweight and intricate craftsmanship.
🔹March 9 – Daria Rotast gave an insightful lecture on Russian traditions and national attire, as well as performed Russian classical romance ballads.
🔥1
🎙 Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s interview to the 'New Regions of Russia' magazine (March 10, 2025)
Read in full
❓ Question: Which general international and foreign political conclusions – both positive and negative – can Russia draw after three years of the special military operation? Did we get the very “experience, the son of difficult errors,” in the words of the classic?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: The last three years became the “moment of truth” of a kind. Following the launch of the special military operation to protect the people of Donbass and Novorossiya, the collective West showed what it is worth. Both the infamous rule of law and basic rules of decency were cast aside. <...>
A new global divide was formed de-facto with the western minority on one side, and the World majority on the other. These are all countries, as well as people of goodwill in the West, who stand for the establishment of a multipolar world supported by a balance of interests.
I believe the main lesson is as follows: we must rely on ourselves in main issues of the functioning of the country and our trusted friends who stayed with us in difficult times.
<...>
❓ Question: Do you support the opinion that US President Donald Trump must take an active participation in negotiations between Russia and Ukraine and become a sort of a peacemaker?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: I would not like to run too far ahead. As President of Russia Vladimir Putin said a number of times, we are always ready for talks. Yet, our national interests must be guaranteed.
The root cause of the conflict in Ukraine must be eradicated – the President highlighted this aspect of the utmost importance in his telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump on February 12.
I would like to remind you that, first and foremost, we speak about eradication of threats to security of Russia from the Ukrainian and the western direction, which emerged following the NATO expansion to the east and the necessity to cease the practice, which the Kiev regime adopted, to exterminate everything which is somewhat connected to Russia and the Russian world. <...>
It is too early to make far-reaching conclusions from what we have just heard from Donald Trump’s administration, but it is encouraging. The President of the United States admitted himself that the NATO expansion and attempts to get Ukraine involved in it became one of the root causes of the conflict.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio speaks about the multipolarity of the modern world and the need to respect the interests of all states, both large and small. For the first time in three years, US diplomats voted jointly with Russia and our associates in the UN against the odious resolution of the General Assembly promoted by Kiev and its patrons from the European Union. <...>
❓ Question: This year, Russia will celebrate the 80th Anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War. <...> Are we doing everything right to fully preserve the state’s historical memory of the past and the present?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: The 80th Anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War is the pinnacle event of the year. The Foreign Ministry, as well as other government agencies, is preparing to celebrate it in the most fitting manner, paying tribute to the memory of the heroic deeds of our predecessors. <...>
Despite the information war launched by the collective West, Russia’s voice is heard clearly on the international stage. The world understands that falsifying history and undermining spiritual and moral values will result in deteriorating statehood and the loss of sovereignty. Ukraine is a tragic example of this. <...>
This is why the appeal of the CIS Heads of State to the peoples of the CIS and the international community on the 80th Anniversary of the Victory of the Soviet people in the Great Patriotic War of 1941–1945 was adopted on October 8, 2024 in Moscow.
The year of 2025 in the CIS was declared the Year of the 80th Anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War – Year of Peace and Unity in the Fight against Nazism.
Read in full
❓ Question: Which general international and foreign political conclusions – both positive and negative – can Russia draw after three years of the special military operation? Did we get the very “experience, the son of difficult errors,” in the words of the classic?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: The last three years became the “moment of truth” of a kind. Following the launch of the special military operation to protect the people of Donbass and Novorossiya, the collective West showed what it is worth. Both the infamous rule of law and basic rules of decency were cast aside. <...>
A new global divide was formed de-facto with the western minority on one side, and the World majority on the other. These are all countries, as well as people of goodwill in the West, who stand for the establishment of a multipolar world supported by a balance of interests.
I believe the main lesson is as follows: we must rely on ourselves in main issues of the functioning of the country and our trusted friends who stayed with us in difficult times.
<...>
❓ Question: Do you support the opinion that US President Donald Trump must take an active participation in negotiations between Russia and Ukraine and become a sort of a peacemaker?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: I would not like to run too far ahead. As President of Russia Vladimir Putin said a number of times, we are always ready for talks. Yet, our national interests must be guaranteed.
The root cause of the conflict in Ukraine must be eradicated – the President highlighted this aspect of the utmost importance in his telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump on February 12.
I would like to remind you that, first and foremost, we speak about eradication of threats to security of Russia from the Ukrainian and the western direction, which emerged following the NATO expansion to the east and the necessity to cease the practice, which the Kiev regime adopted, to exterminate everything which is somewhat connected to Russia and the Russian world. <...>
It is too early to make far-reaching conclusions from what we have just heard from Donald Trump’s administration, but it is encouraging. The President of the United States admitted himself that the NATO expansion and attempts to get Ukraine involved in it became one of the root causes of the conflict.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio speaks about the multipolarity of the modern world and the need to respect the interests of all states, both large and small. For the first time in three years, US diplomats voted jointly with Russia and our associates in the UN against the odious resolution of the General Assembly promoted by Kiev and its patrons from the European Union. <...>
❓ Question: This year, Russia will celebrate the 80th Anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War. <...> Are we doing everything right to fully preserve the state’s historical memory of the past and the present?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: The 80th Anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War is the pinnacle event of the year. The Foreign Ministry, as well as other government agencies, is preparing to celebrate it in the most fitting manner, paying tribute to the memory of the heroic deeds of our predecessors. <...>
Despite the information war launched by the collective West, Russia’s voice is heard clearly on the international stage. The world understands that falsifying history and undermining spiritual and moral values will result in deteriorating statehood and the loss of sovereignty. Ukraine is a tragic example of this. <...>
This is why the appeal of the CIS Heads of State to the peoples of the CIS and the international community on the 80th Anniversary of the Victory of the Soviet people in the Great Patriotic War of 1941–1945 was adopted on October 8, 2024 in Moscow.
The year of 2025 in the CIS was declared the Year of the 80th Anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War – Year of Peace and Unity in the Fight against Nazism.
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
Media is too big
VIEW IN TELEGRAM
🎙 Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s interview to the US bloggers Mario Nawfal, Larry C. Johnson and Andrew Napolitano (Moscow, March 12, 2025)
Key talking points:
• I think what is going on in the United States is a return to normalcy. <...> The fact is that a normal administration without any, you know, unchristian ideas came to power and the reaction was such an explosion in the media, in the politics all over the world is very interesting and very telling.
• When we met in Riyadh with Marco Rubio, Mike Waltz and Steve Witkoff they suggested the meeting and they said, look, we want normal relations in the sense that the foundation of the American foreign policy under the Donald Trump administration is the national interest of the United States. But at the same time, we understand that other countries also have their national interest.
• It is very well understood that countries like the United States and Russia would never have their national interest the same. They would not coincide maybe even 50 or less percent. But when they do coincide this situation must be used to develop this simultaneous and similar interest. But when the interests do not coincide and contradict each other then the responsible countries must do everything not to allow this contradiction to degenerate into confrontation, especially military confrontation which would be disastrous for many other countries.
• The beginning of the special military operation was a decision because all other attempts, all other alternatives to bring things into some positive dimension failed for ten years after the illegal coup in Kiev, in violation of the deal signed the night before and guaranteed by the Germans, French and Poles.
• I don't think the Americans would drop from NATO. At least President Trump never hinted that this might be the case. But what he did bluntly say was that if you want us to protect you, to give you security guarantees, you pay what is necessary.
• But President Trump doesn't want to provide these security guarantees to Ukraine under Zelensky. He has his own view of the situation which he bluntly presents every now and then, that this war should never have started – that pulling Ukraine into NATO in violation of its Constitution, in violation of the Declaration of Independence of 1991, on the basis of which we recognized Ukraine as a sovereign state. For several reasons including that this Declaration was saying no NATO, no blocs, neutral status. Another thing which this Declaration also confirmed and solidified - all rights of Russian and all other national minorities are to be respected.
• Europe and the UK they certainly want this to continue. The way they received Zelensky in London after the scandal in Washington, it's an indication that they want to raise the stakes and they are preparing something to pressure the Donald Trump administration back into some aggressive action against Russia.
• It's not about the territories, it's about the people who were deprived of their history by law. Territories are important only because people live on these territories. The people who live on the territories are descendants of those who for hundreds of years were building Odessa & other cities on those very lands who were building ports, roads, who were founding those lands and who associated with the history of this land.
❗️ The Americans know that we would not betray our commitments, legal commitments, the political commitments which we develop with China.
Read in full
Key talking points:
• I think what is going on in the United States is a return to normalcy. <...> The fact is that a normal administration without any, you know, unchristian ideas came to power and the reaction was such an explosion in the media, in the politics all over the world is very interesting and very telling.
• When we met in Riyadh with Marco Rubio, Mike Waltz and Steve Witkoff they suggested the meeting and they said, look, we want normal relations in the sense that the foundation of the American foreign policy under the Donald Trump administration is the national interest of the United States. But at the same time, we understand that other countries also have their national interest.
• It is very well understood that countries like the United States and Russia would never have their national interest the same. They would not coincide maybe even 50 or less percent. But when they do coincide this situation must be used to develop this simultaneous and similar interest. But when the interests do not coincide and contradict each other then the responsible countries must do everything not to allow this contradiction to degenerate into confrontation, especially military confrontation which would be disastrous for many other countries.
• The beginning of the special military operation was a decision because all other attempts, all other alternatives to bring things into some positive dimension failed for ten years after the illegal coup in Kiev, in violation of the deal signed the night before and guaranteed by the Germans, French and Poles.
• I don't think the Americans would drop from NATO. At least President Trump never hinted that this might be the case. But what he did bluntly say was that if you want us to protect you, to give you security guarantees, you pay what is necessary.
• But President Trump doesn't want to provide these security guarantees to Ukraine under Zelensky. He has his own view of the situation which he bluntly presents every now and then, that this war should never have started – that pulling Ukraine into NATO in violation of its Constitution, in violation of the Declaration of Independence of 1991, on the basis of which we recognized Ukraine as a sovereign state. For several reasons including that this Declaration was saying no NATO, no blocs, neutral status. Another thing which this Declaration also confirmed and solidified - all rights of Russian and all other national minorities are to be respected.
• Europe and the UK they certainly want this to continue. The way they received Zelensky in London after the scandal in Washington, it's an indication that they want to raise the stakes and they are preparing something to pressure the Donald Trump administration back into some aggressive action against Russia.
• It's not about the territories, it's about the people who were deprived of their history by law. Territories are important only because people live on these territories. The people who live on the territories are descendants of those who for hundreds of years were building Odessa & other cities on those very lands who were building ports, roads, who were founding those lands and who associated with the history of this land.
❗️ The Americans know that we would not betray our commitments, legal commitments, the political commitments which we develop with China.
Read in full
Embassy Comment
We have taken note of a new article by Jonathan Eyal, “Ukraine Accepts a Ceasefire, but Does Russia Want One?”, published in today’s issue of The Straits Times.
We will respond to the author’s speculations with the words of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov from his interview with the US bloggers Mario Nawfal, Larry C. Johnson, and Andrew Napolitano in Moscow on March 12, 2025:
“Europe and the UK they certainly want this to continue. The way they received Zelensky in London after the scandal in Washington, it's an indication that they want to raise the stakes and they are preparing something to pressure the Donald Trump administration back into some aggressive action against Russia. <...>
We know what must be done and that we would not compromise the fate of the people. It's not about the territories, it's about the people who were deprived of their history by law. Territories are important only because people live on these territories. The people who live on the territories are descendants of those, who for hundreds of years were building Odessa & other cities on those very lands who were building ports, roads, who were founding those lands and who associated with the history of this land. <...> ”.
See for yourself who really wants peace in Ukraine and who is just speculating about it as a pretext for continued bloodshed.
We have taken note of a new article by Jonathan Eyal, “Ukraine Accepts a Ceasefire, but Does Russia Want One?”, published in today’s issue of The Straits Times.
We will respond to the author’s speculations with the words of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov from his interview with the US bloggers Mario Nawfal, Larry C. Johnson, and Andrew Napolitano in Moscow on March 12, 2025:
“Europe and the UK they certainly want this to continue. The way they received Zelensky in London after the scandal in Washington, it's an indication that they want to raise the stakes and they are preparing something to pressure the Donald Trump administration back into some aggressive action against Russia. <...>
We know what must be done and that we would not compromise the fate of the people. It's not about the territories, it's about the people who were deprived of their history by law. Territories are important only because people live on these territories. The people who live on the territories are descendants of those, who for hundreds of years were building Odessa & other cities on those very lands who were building ports, roads, who were founding those lands and who associated with the history of this land. <...> ”.
See for yourself who really wants peace in Ukraine and who is just speculating about it as a pretext for continued bloodshed.
Excerpts from the joint news conference with President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko
Vladimir Putin: As for Ukraine’s readiness for a ceasefire, I will tell you how I view it, of course.
But I would like to start by thanking the President of the United States, Mr Trump, for paying so much attention to the Ukraine settlement. We all have enough of our own domestic affairs to attend to. But many leaders of states, among them the President of the People’s Republic of China, the Prime Minister of India, the Presidents of Brazil and the Republic of South Africa, are addressing this issue and give it a lot of their time. We are grateful to all of them for that, because this activity is aimed at achieving a noble mission – the mission of ending hostilities and loss of life. This is my first point.
Second. We agree with the proposals to cease hostilities but proceed from the assumption that this cessation should lead to long-term peace and eliminate the root causes of this crisis.
Now, on Ukraine’s readiness to cease the hostilities. You know, on the face of it, the US-Ukraine meeting in Saudi Arabia may look like the Ukrainian side made this decision under pressure from the United States. In fact, I am absolutely convinced that the Ukrainian side should have asked the Americans for this decision most emphatically, in view of the situation evolving on the ground, as has just been mentioned here.
<...>
We are also in favour of it, but there are nuances. What are they? How will other issues along the entire contact line be solved? It is almost 2,000 kilometres long. As you know, Russian troops are advancing in almost all areas of combat contact. Conditions are also very favourable there for us to block rather large units there.
So, how would these 30 days be used? For forced mobilisation to continue in Ukraine? For more weapons to be supplied there? For retraining the mobilised units? Or would none of this be done?
If so, how will issues related to control and verification be addressed? How can we guarantee and receive guarantees that nothing like this would happen? How will control procedures be organised? I hope everyone understands the complexity of all this at the level of common sense. These are all serious issues.
Vladimir Putin: As for Ukraine’s readiness for a ceasefire, I will tell you how I view it, of course.
But I would like to start by thanking the President of the United States, Mr Trump, for paying so much attention to the Ukraine settlement. We all have enough of our own domestic affairs to attend to. But many leaders of states, among them the President of the People’s Republic of China, the Prime Minister of India, the Presidents of Brazil and the Republic of South Africa, are addressing this issue and give it a lot of their time. We are grateful to all of them for that, because this activity is aimed at achieving a noble mission – the mission of ending hostilities and loss of life. This is my first point.
Second. We agree with the proposals to cease hostilities but proceed from the assumption that this cessation should lead to long-term peace and eliminate the root causes of this crisis.
Now, on Ukraine’s readiness to cease the hostilities. You know, on the face of it, the US-Ukraine meeting in Saudi Arabia may look like the Ukrainian side made this decision under pressure from the United States. In fact, I am absolutely convinced that the Ukrainian side should have asked the Americans for this decision most emphatically, in view of the situation evolving on the ground, as has just been mentioned here.
<...>
We are also in favour of it, but there are nuances. What are they? How will other issues along the entire contact line be solved? It is almost 2,000 kilometres long. As you know, Russian troops are advancing in almost all areas of combat contact. Conditions are also very favourable there for us to block rather large units there.
So, how would these 30 days be used? For forced mobilisation to continue in Ukraine? For more weapons to be supplied there? For retraining the mobilised units? Or would none of this be done?
If so, how will issues related to control and verification be addressed? How can we guarantee and receive guarantees that nothing like this would happen? How will control procedures be organised? I hope everyone understands the complexity of all this at the level of common sense. These are all serious issues.
Forwarded from ASEAN Centre in MGIMO
📣🧑🎓2 марта стартовал новый набор на магистерскую программу «Политика и экономика стратегического партнерства Россия — АСЕАН», разработанную МГИМО и Центром АСЕАН.
Подробнее на сайте study-asean.mgimo.ru
Для подачи заявки необходимо зарегистрироваться на сайте master.mgimo.ru
Прием документов продлится до 31 июля (до 18:00 по Москве).
По всем вопросам можно обращаться к приемной комиссии по электронной почте master@my.mgimo.ru, а также к сотрудникам Центра АСЕАН asean@inno.mgimo.ru.
📣🧑🎓The third enrollment of students for Master Degree Programme Political Economy of ASEAN-Russia Strategic Partnership is underway.
To learn more about the programme check the website study-asean.mgimo.ru
To apply fill in the registration form on master.mgimo.ru
Application’s deadline: July 31, 2025 (06:00 PM Moscow time).
For any questions please contact the admissions office via master@my.mgimo.ru or ASEAN Centre’s experts asean@inno.mgimo.ru
Подробнее на сайте study-asean.mgimo.ru
Для подачи заявки необходимо зарегистрироваться на сайте master.mgimo.ru
Прием документов продлится до 31 июля (до 18:00 по Москве).
По всем вопросам можно обращаться к приемной комиссии по электронной почте master@my.mgimo.ru, а также к сотрудникам Центра АСЕАН asean@inno.mgimo.ru.
📣🧑🎓The third enrollment of students for Master Degree Programme Political Economy of ASEAN-Russia Strategic Partnership is underway.
To learn more about the programme check the website study-asean.mgimo.ru
To apply fill in the registration form on master.mgimo.ru
Application’s deadline: July 31, 2025 (06:00 PM Moscow time).
For any questions please contact the admissions office via master@my.mgimo.ru or ASEAN Centre’s experts asean@inno.mgimo.ru
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🇷🇺 1️⃣1️⃣ years ago, on March 16, 2014, the historic referendum was held in Crimea – residents of the peninsula unequivocally voted FOR reuniting with their historical homeland, Russia.
🗳 Participation in the referendum was both voluntary and free. An impressive 96.77 percent of the Crimean population voted in favour of becoming part of Russia, with a blasting turnout of 83.1 percent. In Sevastopol, 95.6 percent supported the move, with a turnout of 89.5 percent.
The Crimean referendum was monitored by 135 international observers from 23 countries, alongside 1,240 observers from Crimean organisations, and was reported on by 623 journalists representing 169 media outlets.
🎙 From the briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova (March 13, 2025):
✍️ Following the free expression of will by the Crimean people, the Republic of Crimea signed an international treaty with Russia on March 18, 2014, formalising its accession.
Over the past 11 years, the Republic of Crimea and the federal city of Sevastopol have become fully integrated into the political, legal and economic framework of Russia. Significant infrastructure projects have been undertaken, including the construction of a bridge across the Kerch Strait, the Crimea-Kuban gas pipeline, the Tavrida federal motorway, Simferopol airport, and hundreds of other healthcare, educational, social and engineering facilities.
☝️ Interfaith accord and harmony are preserved in the peninsula, interests of all ethnic groups are taken into account. A complete national and cultural autonomy for the Crimean Tatars has been established, with their representatives participating in local government. The Crimean Tatar language has been recognised as a state language alongside Russian and Ukrainian.
Economic breakthrough and overall advancements achieved over these years, coupled with an unprecedented rise in living standards, the development of infrastructure, and the established interfaith peace in the peninsula, all reaffirm that the choice made by the Crimeans 11 years ago was the only correct one.
#CrimeaIsRussia #TogetherForever
🗳 Participation in the referendum was both voluntary and free. An impressive 96.77 percent of the Crimean population voted in favour of becoming part of Russia, with a blasting turnout of 83.1 percent. In Sevastopol, 95.6 percent supported the move, with a turnout of 89.5 percent.
The Crimean referendum was monitored by 135 international observers from 23 countries, alongside 1,240 observers from Crimean organisations, and was reported on by 623 journalists representing 169 media outlets.
🎙 From the briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova (March 13, 2025):
On that day, Crimean citizens made a free, conscious and independent choice regarding their own and their children’s future. This was a fair and long-awaited decision for Crimeans as well as for all citizens of our country.
✍️ Following the free expression of will by the Crimean people, the Republic of Crimea signed an international treaty with Russia on March 18, 2014, formalising its accession.
Over the past 11 years, the Republic of Crimea and the federal city of Sevastopol have become fully integrated into the political, legal and economic framework of Russia. Significant infrastructure projects have been undertaken, including the construction of a bridge across the Kerch Strait, the Crimea-Kuban gas pipeline, the Tavrida federal motorway, Simferopol airport, and hundreds of other healthcare, educational, social and engineering facilities.
☝️ Interfaith accord and harmony are preserved in the peninsula, interests of all ethnic groups are taken into account. A complete national and cultural autonomy for the Crimean Tatars has been established, with their representatives participating in local government. The Crimean Tatar language has been recognised as a state language alongside Russian and Ukrainian.
Economic breakthrough and overall advancements achieved over these years, coupled with an unprecedented rise in living standards, the development of infrastructure, and the established interfaith peace in the peninsula, all reaffirm that the choice made by the Crimeans 11 years ago was the only correct one.
#CrimeaIsRussia #TogetherForever
Visit of members of the United Nations Association of Russia to the Embassy of Russia in Singapore
On 13 March 2025, representatives and students from MGIMO University and E.M. Primakov School (Gymnasium), members of the United Nations Association of Russia, visited the Embassy of Russia in Singapore during their participation in the Model United Nations 2025.
During the visit, the students had the opportunity to meet with the Ambassador of Russia to Singapore, H.E. Nikolay R. Kudashev, as well as other Embassy officials. They were informed about the current state of Russia-Singapore relations and gained valuable insights into diplomatic career paths through the personal experiences shared by the speakers. The representatives of the Gymnasium expressed their interest in developing educational contacts with Singaporean partners.
This visit served as an important educational initiative, allowing students to deepen their understanding of diplomatic practices, expand their knowledge of international relations, and enhance their interest in global affairs.
О визите делегации РАС ООН в Посольство России в Сингапуре
13 марта 2025 года студенты МГИМО МИД России, учащиеся Гимназии им. Е.М. Примакова, члены делегации Российской ассоциации содействия ООН (РАС ООН), посетили Посольство России в Сингапуре в рамках участия в международной Модели ООН Model United Nations 2025.
В ходе визита студенты и школьники встретились с Чрезвычайным и Полномочным Послом России в Сингапуре Н.Р. Кудашевым, а также сотрудниками Посольства. Гимназисты узнали о текущем состоянии российско-сингапурских отношений, а также получили ценные рекомендации по построению дипломатической карьеры на основе личного опыта российских дипломатов. Представители Гимназии выразили заинтересованность в развитии образовательных контактов с сингапурскими партнёрами.
Встреча стала значимой образовательной инициативой, позволившей учащимся лучше понять специфику дипломатической работы, расширить знания в области мировой политики и подготовиться к участию в международной Модели ООН.
On 13 March 2025, representatives and students from MGIMO University and E.M. Primakov School (Gymnasium), members of the United Nations Association of Russia, visited the Embassy of Russia in Singapore during their participation in the Model United Nations 2025.
During the visit, the students had the opportunity to meet with the Ambassador of Russia to Singapore, H.E. Nikolay R. Kudashev, as well as other Embassy officials. They were informed about the current state of Russia-Singapore relations and gained valuable insights into diplomatic career paths through the personal experiences shared by the speakers. The representatives of the Gymnasium expressed their interest in developing educational contacts with Singaporean partners.
This visit served as an important educational initiative, allowing students to deepen their understanding of diplomatic practices, expand their knowledge of international relations, and enhance their interest in global affairs.
О визите делегации РАС ООН в Посольство России в Сингапуре
13 марта 2025 года студенты МГИМО МИД России, учащиеся Гимназии им. Е.М. Примакова, члены делегации Российской ассоциации содействия ООН (РАС ООН), посетили Посольство России в Сингапуре в рамках участия в международной Модели ООН Model United Nations 2025.
В ходе визита студенты и школьники встретились с Чрезвычайным и Полномочным Послом России в Сингапуре Н.Р. Кудашевым, а также сотрудниками Посольства. Гимназисты узнали о текущем состоянии российско-сингапурских отношений, а также получили ценные рекомендации по построению дипломатической карьеры на основе личного опыта российских дипломатов. Представители Гимназии выразили заинтересованность в развитии образовательных контактов с сингапурскими партнёрами.
Встреча стала значимой образовательной инициативой, позволившей учащимся лучше понять специфику дипломатической работы, расширить знания в области мировой политики и подготовиться к участию в международной Модели ООН.
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#CrimeaIsRussia
🗓 11 years ago — on March 18, 2014 — President of Russia Vladimir Putin, Prime Minister of Crimea Sergey Aksyonov, Chairman of the State Council of Crimea Vladimir Konstantinov and Head of Sevastopol Alexey Chalyi signed the Agreement formalising Crimea’s reunification with the Russian Federation.
🗳 This historic moment occurred just two days after the all-Crimean referendum had been held.
96.77% of Crimeans and 95.6% of Sevastopol residents supported reunification with Russia. It was the very embodiment of the right of peoples for self-determination and a true triumph of democracy.
💬 President Putin:
Instead, the peninsula and its people have flourished, overcoming decades of neglect and decay under Ukraine, becoming one of the most rapidly developing region worldwide.
💬 Sergey Lavrov:
#TogetherForever
🗓 11 years ago — on March 18, 2014 — President of Russia Vladimir Putin, Prime Minister of Crimea Sergey Aksyonov, Chairman of the State Council of Crimea Vladimir Konstantinov and Head of Sevastopol Alexey Chalyi signed the Agreement formalising Crimea’s reunification with the Russian Federation.
🗳 This historic moment occurred just two days after the all-Crimean referendum had been held.
96.77% of Crimeans and 95.6% of Sevastopol residents supported reunification with Russia. It was the very embodiment of the right of peoples for self-determination and a true triumph of democracy.
💬 President Putin:
In people’s hearts and minds, Crimea has always been an inseparable part of Russia. This firm conviction is based on truth and justice and was passed from generation to generation, over time, under any circumstances (from the Address by the President of the Russian Federation on March 18, 2014).The ensuing developments, including attempts by the post-coup Ukrainian authorities to punish the peninsula's population, prove that the decision of Crimeans to reunite with Russia was the only way to go. Having made their choice to be with their historical homeland, with Russia, the residents of Crimea avoided the fate of the many Russians and Russian-speakers, did not fall victim to the Russophobic Kiev regime.
Instead, the peninsula and its people have flourished, overcoming decades of neglect and decay under Ukraine, becoming one of the most rapidly developing region worldwide.
💬 Sergey Lavrov:
The question of who Crimea and Sevastopol belong to is closed. The peninsula is an integral part of the Russian Federation (from the address of Russia's Foreign Minister on the 10th anniversary of the Crimean Spring, March 16, 2014).
#TogetherForever
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🇷🇺🇺🇸📞 Presidents of Russia & the United States, Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump spoke over the phone (March 18, 2025)
The Leaders continued their detailed and frank exchange of views on the situation surrounding Ukraine. Vladimir Putin extended gratitude to Donald Trump for his striving to achieve the noble goal of ending the hostilities and loss of life.
Confirming his fundamental commitment to finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict, the President of Russia expressed willingness to thoroughly work out possible solutions in cooperation with the American partners, aimed at reaching a settlement that would be comprehensive, reliable, and lasting, and, naturally, take into account the essential need to eliminate the root causes of the crisis, as well as Russia's legitimate security interests.
Concerning US President's proposal to declare a 30-day ceasefire, the Russian Side outlined a number of significant points regarding ensuring effective control over a possible ceasefire along the entire frontline, as well as the need to stop the forced mobilisation in Ukraine and rearming the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
It was noted that some serious risks exist pertaining to the intractability of the Kiev regime which had repeatedly sabotaged and violated negotiated agreements. An emphasis was made on barbaric acts of terrorism committed by Ukrainian militants against civilians residing in the Kursk Region.
It was pointed out that a complete cessation of providing Kiev with foreign military aid and intelligence must become the key condition for preventing an escalation of the conflict and making progress towards its resolution through political and diplomatic means.
Referring to Donald Trump's recent appeal to spare the lives of the Ukrainian servicemen surrounded in the Kursk Region, Vladimir Putin confirmed that the Russian Side was willing to embrace humanitarian motives and guaranteed that the soldiers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine would live and be treated fairly in accordance with Russian legislation and international law in the event of surrender.
During the conversation, Donald Trump put forward a proposal for the parties to mutually refrain from strikes on energy infrastructure for 30 days. Vladimir Putin responded favourably to the proposal and immediately gave the relevant order to the Russian troops.
Just as favourable was the Russian President's response to Donald Trump's suggestion to implement a well-known proposal regarding the safety of navigation in the Black Sea. The Leaders agreed to begin talks to further work out specific details of such an agreement.
Vladimir Putin made it known that on March 19, the Russian and Ukrainian sides would carry out an exchange of prisoners, each swapping 175 people. Additionally, as a gesture of goodwill, 23 heavily wounded Ukrainian soldiers currently receiving aid at Russian medical facilities will also be repatriated.
The Leaders confirmed their intention to continue efforts aimed at reaching a settlement in Ukraine bilaterally, with due regard in particular to the aforementioned proposals by the US President. For this purpose, a Russian and an American expert task forces are now being formed.
Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump also addressed some other international issues, including the situation in the Middle East and in the Red Sea region. Joint efforts will be made to stabilise the situation in the crisis spots and establish cooperation on nuclear non-proliferation and global security. This will, in turn, contribute to improving the overall ambiance of relations between Russia and the United States. One positive example is the recent vote in the UN on a resolution on the Ukraine conflict, in which the two countries aligned their stances.
The Leaders expressed mutual interest in normalising the bilateral ties in light of the special responsibility for ensuring global security and stability borne by both Russia and the United States. <...>
🤝 The Presidents agreed to stay in touch on all the issues raised.
#RussiaUS
The Leaders continued their detailed and frank exchange of views on the situation surrounding Ukraine. Vladimir Putin extended gratitude to Donald Trump for his striving to achieve the noble goal of ending the hostilities and loss of life.
Confirming his fundamental commitment to finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict, the President of Russia expressed willingness to thoroughly work out possible solutions in cooperation with the American partners, aimed at reaching a settlement that would be comprehensive, reliable, and lasting, and, naturally, take into account the essential need to eliminate the root causes of the crisis, as well as Russia's legitimate security interests.
Concerning US President's proposal to declare a 30-day ceasefire, the Russian Side outlined a number of significant points regarding ensuring effective control over a possible ceasefire along the entire frontline, as well as the need to stop the forced mobilisation in Ukraine and rearming the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
It was noted that some serious risks exist pertaining to the intractability of the Kiev regime which had repeatedly sabotaged and violated negotiated agreements. An emphasis was made on barbaric acts of terrorism committed by Ukrainian militants against civilians residing in the Kursk Region.
It was pointed out that a complete cessation of providing Kiev with foreign military aid and intelligence must become the key condition for preventing an escalation of the conflict and making progress towards its resolution through political and diplomatic means.
Referring to Donald Trump's recent appeal to spare the lives of the Ukrainian servicemen surrounded in the Kursk Region, Vladimir Putin confirmed that the Russian Side was willing to embrace humanitarian motives and guaranteed that the soldiers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine would live and be treated fairly in accordance with Russian legislation and international law in the event of surrender.
During the conversation, Donald Trump put forward a proposal for the parties to mutually refrain from strikes on energy infrastructure for 30 days. Vladimir Putin responded favourably to the proposal and immediately gave the relevant order to the Russian troops.
Just as favourable was the Russian President's response to Donald Trump's suggestion to implement a well-known proposal regarding the safety of navigation in the Black Sea. The Leaders agreed to begin talks to further work out specific details of such an agreement.
Vladimir Putin made it known that on March 19, the Russian and Ukrainian sides would carry out an exchange of prisoners, each swapping 175 people. Additionally, as a gesture of goodwill, 23 heavily wounded Ukrainian soldiers currently receiving aid at Russian medical facilities will also be repatriated.
The Leaders confirmed their intention to continue efforts aimed at reaching a settlement in Ukraine bilaterally, with due regard in particular to the aforementioned proposals by the US President. For this purpose, a Russian and an American expert task forces are now being formed.
Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump also addressed some other international issues, including the situation in the Middle East and in the Red Sea region. Joint efforts will be made to stabilise the situation in the crisis spots and establish cooperation on nuclear non-proliferation and global security. This will, in turn, contribute to improving the overall ambiance of relations between Russia and the United States. One positive example is the recent vote in the UN on a resolution on the Ukraine conflict, in which the two countries aligned their stances.
The Leaders expressed mutual interest in normalising the bilateral ties in light of the special responsibility for ensuring global security and stability borne by both Russia and the United States. <...>
🤝 The Presidents agreed to stay in touch on all the issues raised.
#RussiaUS
Embassy comment
We have read yet another scaremongering piece by The Straits Times correspondent J. Eyal, which was published in today's issue under the sensational title ‘Trump’s call with Putin to broker Ukraine ceasefire a clear flop’.
In our opinion, the piece is an example of blatant bias aimed at discrediting and demonizing the Russian-American negotiation process on Ukraine, casting a shadow over the leaders of Russia and the United States, and rehabilitating the Kiev authorities and their supporters. Most crucially, it seeks to instill a sense of hopelessness in readers. This narrative serves only those who, like the author, refuse to acknowledge any path out of the dead-end of the hybrid war waged against Russia by the collective West and those intent on its defeat. Let us respond to the author with the excerpts from the text of the official statement of the press service of the Russian President Vladimir Putin about his telephone conversation with the US President Trump on March 18, 2025:
We encourage readers to explore this document’s content (in full at http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/76477) and form their own independent opinion on the Russian-American negotiation process — its progress, challenges, and problems. This will make it clear who is truly obstructing peace in Ukraine and Europe as a whole.
As for the esteemed Mr Eyal, it is regrettable that someone who presents himself as an international columnist would deliver such a subpar analysis — one that not only lacks depth but also includes disrespectful remarks about the leaders of two great powers.
We have read yet another scaremongering piece by The Straits Times correspondent J. Eyal, which was published in today's issue under the sensational title ‘Trump’s call with Putin to broker Ukraine ceasefire a clear flop’.
In our opinion, the piece is an example of blatant bias aimed at discrediting and demonizing the Russian-American negotiation process on Ukraine, casting a shadow over the leaders of Russia and the United States, and rehabilitating the Kiev authorities and their supporters. Most crucially, it seeks to instill a sense of hopelessness in readers. This narrative serves only those who, like the author, refuse to acknowledge any path out of the dead-end of the hybrid war waged against Russia by the collective West and those intent on its defeat. Let us respond to the author with the excerpts from the text of the official statement of the press service of the Russian President Vladimir Putin about his telephone conversation with the US President Trump on March 18, 2025:
The leaders continued their detailed and frank exchange of views on the situation surrounding Ukraine. Vladimir Putin extended gratitude to Donald Trump for his striving to achieve the noble goal of ending the hostilities and loss of life.
Confirming his fundamental commitment to finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict, the President of Russia expressed willingness to thoroughly work out possible solutions in cooperation with the American partners, aimed at reaching a settlement that would be comprehensive, reliable, and lasting, and, naturally, take into account the essential need to eliminate the root causes of the crisis, as well as Russia's legitimate security interests.
Concerning US President's proposal to declare a 30-day ceasefire, the Russian side outlined a number of significant points regarding ensuring effective control over a possible ceasefire along the entire frontline, as well as the need to stop the forced mobilisation in Ukraine and rearming the Armed Forces of Ukraine. It was noted that some serious risks exist pertaining to the intractability of the Kiev regime which had repeatedly sabotaged and violated negotiated agreements. An emphasis was made on barbaric acts of terrorism committed by Ukrainian militants against civilians residing in the Kursk Region.
It was pointed out that a complete cessation of providing Kiev with foreign military aid and intelligence must become the key condition for preventing an escalation of the conflict and making progress towards its resolution through political and diplomatic means.
Referring to Donald Trump's recent appeal to spare the lives of the Ukrainian servicemen surrounded in the Kursk Region, Vladimir Putin confirmed that the Russian side was willing to embrace humanitarian motives and guaranteed that the soldiers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine would live and be treated fairly in accordance with Russian legislation and international law in the event of surrender.
During the conversation, Donald Trump put forward a proposal for the parties to mutually refrain from strikes on energy infrastructure for 30 days. Vladimir Putin responded favourably to the proposal and immediately gave the relevant order to the Russian troops.
We encourage readers to explore this document’s content (in full at http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/76477) and form their own independent opinion on the Russian-American negotiation process — its progress, challenges, and problems. This will make it clear who is truly obstructing peace in Ukraine and Europe as a whole.
As for the esteemed Mr Eyal, it is regrettable that someone who presents himself as an international columnist would deliver such a subpar analysis — one that not only lacks depth but also includes disrespectful remarks about the leaders of two great powers.
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🎙 Excerpt from President of Russia Vladimir Putin's remarks at the expanded meeting of the Russian Federation Prosecutor General’s Office Board.
💬 President Putin: Under the law of the Russian Federation, all Ukrainian military personnel and foreign mercenaries who entered our territory and committed crimes against civilians, shall be, and are, legally classified as terrorists.
Their atrocities must be identified, documented, and meticulously investigated. I instruct prosecution bodies, including military prosecutors, to fully deploy this work in liberated territories – in Sudzha and other localities – in coordination with relevant services.
These criminals, punishers, and those who issued unlawful orders and abused civilians must be identified and brought to justice.
Read in full
💬 President Putin: Under the law of the Russian Federation, all Ukrainian military personnel and foreign mercenaries who entered our territory and committed crimes against civilians, shall be, and are, legally classified as terrorists.
Their atrocities must be identified, documented, and meticulously investigated. I instruct prosecution bodies, including military prosecutors, to fully deploy this work in liberated territories – in Sudzha and other localities – in coordination with relevant services.
These criminals, punishers, and those who issued unlawful orders and abused civilians must be identified and brought to justice.
Read in full
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#TeamLavrov
On the 75th Anniversary of Sergey Lavrov, prominent figures from the worlds of culture, sports, and science recited his famous poem "The Ambassador’s Decree" sincerely congratulating the Minister on his milestone and confirming that not only his remarkable achievements in diplomacy but also the heartfelt words of his works continue to inspire and resonate in people's hearts 👆
Sergey Lavrov's poetic journey began in his student years. In 2004, his poems were included in a poetic anthology published to mark the 60th Anniversary of MGIMO, for which he is also the author of the anthem.
📄 One of the most well-known poems by the head of Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs is "The Ambassador’s Decree" written in 2004.
The work gained wide recognition, spreading far beyond the walls of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and was highly appreciated by the literary community. In 2016, Sergey Lavrov became a laureate of the national "Imperial Culture" award for this poem, receiving recognition in the category "Events. Feats. People."
#WeLOVErov
💬 Sergey Lavrov himself has repeatedly emphasized that the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs cherishes poetic traditions:
(from Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s greetings to participants in the Diplomatic Club’s meeting on March 30, 2017)
On the 75th Anniversary of Sergey Lavrov, prominent figures from the worlds of culture, sports, and science recited his famous poem "The Ambassador’s Decree" sincerely congratulating the Minister on his milestone and confirming that not only his remarkable achievements in diplomacy but also the heartfelt words of his works continue to inspire and resonate in people's hearts 👆
Sergey Lavrov's poetic journey began in his student years. In 2004, his poems were included in a poetic anthology published to mark the 60th Anniversary of MGIMO, for which he is also the author of the anthem.
📄 One of the most well-known poems by the head of Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs is "The Ambassador’s Decree" written in 2004.
The work gained wide recognition, spreading far beyond the walls of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and was highly appreciated by the literary community. In 2016, Sergey Lavrov became a laureate of the national "Imperial Culture" award for this poem, receiving recognition in the category "Events. Feats. People."
#WeLOVErov
💬 Sergey Lavrov himself has repeatedly emphasized that the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs cherishes poetic traditions:
The work of a diplomat is somewhat like the work of a writer. As is common knowledge, our main tool is the word, which we use to defend our country’s interests. <...> The Ministry on Smolenskaya Square cherishes the poetic tradition. A number of its employees, myself included, try their hand at writing.
(from Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s greetings to participants in the Diplomatic Club’s meeting on March 30, 2017)
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🎥 RT news channel covered the "Exquisite Elegance: Celebrating Sarafan Design" exhibition held in Singapore on March 7-9. The event showcased traditional sarafan and kokoshnik designs. Watch the report for highlights.
🎥 Новостное агентство RT подготовило репортаж о выставке Exquisite Elegance: Celebrating Sarafan Design, прошедшей в Сингапуре с 7 по 9 марта с.г. На мероприятии вниманию гостей были представлены традиционные сарафаны и кокошники, фотовыставка и тематические лекции и выступления.
🎥 Новостное агентство RT подготовило репортаж о выставке Exquisite Elegance: Celebrating Sarafan Design, прошедшей в Сингапуре с 7 по 9 марта с.г. На мероприятии вниманию гостей были представлены традиционные сарафаны и кокошники, фотовыставка и тематические лекции и выступления.
🎙 Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s interview with "Krasnaya Zvezda" (Red Star) Media Holding Company for the film "Diplomacy as a Way of Life: I Prefer Fair Play" (March 21, 2025)
Read in full
💬 Sergey Lavrov: <...> The leadership focused [in 1994] on creating proper conditions for deepening partnership with the West. As it turned out later - in fact, it became clear fairly quickly, but almost all our politicians and citizens found it out later - our role in that “partnership” was that of the “little brother.” We were assigned this role. This, of course, was a huge mistake.
Many Western analysts are saying in their memoirs that there was no point in expanding NATO and keeping Russia out of the picture. However, our goal was to join the G7. Even in the 2000s, we did not give up on the idea of expanding cooperation with the West.
❓ Question: Back in the day when you worked at the UN - I’m talking about 1994-1996 - did the position of our leadership sat well with you in terms of how Russia should be represented in the international arena?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: <...> Our leadership was primarily focused on the West, notably G7-Russia relations. The leadership focused on creating proper conditions for deepening partnership with the West. As it turned out later - in fact, it became clear fairly quickly, but almost all our politicians and citizens found it out later - our role in that “partnership” was that of the “little brother.” We were assigned this role. This, of course, was a huge mistake.
<...>
Starting with Yevgeny Primakov, our foreign policy began to change towards multipolarity. It was not designated in these terms back then, but Yevgeny Primakov introduced it in the legitimate diplomatic lexicon and formally advocated for promoting the interests of a multipolar world.
<...>
The UN Charter requires no revision. It remains contemporaneous. It must simply be respected and implemented. When Kosovo declared independence without a referendum, this was hailed as self-determination. Yet when Crimea conducted a transparent referendum with hundreds of European observers, parliament members, and public figures in attendance, it was decried as a violation of Ukraine’s territorial integrity. Duplicity, cynicism, hypocrisy – these are the forces we confront.
Key points:
• Multipolarity means you should be interested in addressing your economic and other needs, such as security, but you never clam up or refuse to talk to any country in the world. Listening to what someone else has to say doesn’t put anyone under any obligation. Often enough, a simple contact, a conversation can help identify new areas of mutually beneficial interaction. This is fully consistent with the UN Charter.
• Our ideas on every matter in global politics will never align [with the US]. We acknowledged this in Riyadh. The Americans acknowledged this, too. In fact, they were the ones who said this. Common sense suggests that it is foolish not to use the points where our interests align in order to translate then into some practical actions and obtain mutually beneficial results.
• Where our interests do not align (US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also said this), it is the duty of responsible powers to prevent this divergence from deteriorating into confrontation. This is absolutely our position.
• Zelensky made a 180-degree turn from someone who came to power with peaceful slogans or slogans like “leave Russian alone; it is our common language and our common culture” (this can be found on the internet) and, six months later, transformed into a full Nazi and, as President of Russia Vladimir Putin rightly said, a traitor to the Jewish people.
• No other language has been subjected to such aggression [as Russian]. But imagine if Switzerland were to ban French or German, or Ireland were to ban English. The Irish there now want “some” self-determination. If the Irish tried to ban English now, they would have shaken all the UN “pillars” demanding Ireland’s condemnation.
❗️ Diplomacy mirrors life: complex, yet we must endure and labour on.
Read in full
💬 Sergey Lavrov: <...> The leadership focused [in 1994] on creating proper conditions for deepening partnership with the West. As it turned out later - in fact, it became clear fairly quickly, but almost all our politicians and citizens found it out later - our role in that “partnership” was that of the “little brother.” We were assigned this role. This, of course, was a huge mistake.
Many Western analysts are saying in their memoirs that there was no point in expanding NATO and keeping Russia out of the picture. However, our goal was to join the G7. Even in the 2000s, we did not give up on the idea of expanding cooperation with the West.
❓ Question: Back in the day when you worked at the UN - I’m talking about 1994-1996 - did the position of our leadership sat well with you in terms of how Russia should be represented in the international arena?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: <...> Our leadership was primarily focused on the West, notably G7-Russia relations. The leadership focused on creating proper conditions for deepening partnership with the West. As it turned out later - in fact, it became clear fairly quickly, but almost all our politicians and citizens found it out later - our role in that “partnership” was that of the “little brother.” We were assigned this role. This, of course, was a huge mistake.
<...>
Starting with Yevgeny Primakov, our foreign policy began to change towards multipolarity. It was not designated in these terms back then, but Yevgeny Primakov introduced it in the legitimate diplomatic lexicon and formally advocated for promoting the interests of a multipolar world.
<...>
The UN Charter requires no revision. It remains contemporaneous. It must simply be respected and implemented. When Kosovo declared independence without a referendum, this was hailed as self-determination. Yet when Crimea conducted a transparent referendum with hundreds of European observers, parliament members, and public figures in attendance, it was decried as a violation of Ukraine’s territorial integrity. Duplicity, cynicism, hypocrisy – these are the forces we confront.
Key points:
• Multipolarity means you should be interested in addressing your economic and other needs, such as security, but you never clam up or refuse to talk to any country in the world. Listening to what someone else has to say doesn’t put anyone under any obligation. Often enough, a simple contact, a conversation can help identify new areas of mutually beneficial interaction. This is fully consistent with the UN Charter.
• Our ideas on every matter in global politics will never align [with the US]. We acknowledged this in Riyadh. The Americans acknowledged this, too. In fact, they were the ones who said this. Common sense suggests that it is foolish not to use the points where our interests align in order to translate then into some practical actions and obtain mutually beneficial results.
• Where our interests do not align (US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also said this), it is the duty of responsible powers to prevent this divergence from deteriorating into confrontation. This is absolutely our position.
• Zelensky made a 180-degree turn from someone who came to power with peaceful slogans or slogans like “leave Russian alone; it is our common language and our common culture” (this can be found on the internet) and, six months later, transformed into a full Nazi and, as President of Russia Vladimir Putin rightly said, a traitor to the Jewish people.
• No other language has been subjected to such aggression [as Russian]. But imagine if Switzerland were to ban French or German, or Ireland were to ban English. The Irish there now want “some” self-determination. If the Irish tried to ban English now, they would have shaken all the UN “pillars” demanding Ireland’s condemnation.
❗️ Diplomacy mirrors life: complex, yet we must endure and labour on.
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