Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has issued a stark warning about the risks of nuclear escalation in the ongoing Ukraine crisis, emphasizing the importance of dialogue to prevent uncontrollable consequences.
In an interview released on Friday with American journalist Tucker Carlson on social media platform X, Lavrov voiced deep concerns over discussions among some Pentagon and NATO officials regarding potential limited nuclear strikes on Russia. He cautioned that any such action could lead to an uncontrollable spiral of escalation.
"Russia’s military doctrine states that the most important thing is to avoid a nuclear war," Lavrov said, referencing the Joint Statement by the Leaders of the Five Nuclear-Weapon States in January 2022, which declared that "a nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought."
Lavrov criticized the West for ignoring Russia’s security concerns and reiterated Russia’s opposition to NATO’s eastward expansion. He urged U.S. policymakers to move away from a "rules-based order" that he claims prioritizes U.S. dominance over multilateralism.
Despite the tensions, Lavrov affirmed that Russia remains open to dialogue under fair and equal terms. He stressed the need for mutual respect and understanding to resolve the crisis and prevent further escalation.
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Russian FM Lavrov warns of nuclear escalation risks in Ukraine: media
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