Today is Dasha Dugina’s 33rd Birthday.
A philosopher, publicist, and public figure, she was killed in a terrorist attack on the direct orders of the Kiev regime. But Dasha lives on, because her work lives on. And the criminal clique in Kiev will face inevitable retribution.
Today is the Remembrance Day of Journalists who Perished in the Line of Duty.
#InMemoriam
A philosopher, publicist, and public figure, she was killed in a terrorist attack on the direct orders of the Kiev regime. But Dasha lives on, because her work lives on. And the criminal clique in Kiev will face inevitable retribution.
Today is the Remembrance Day of Journalists who Perished in the Line of Duty.
#InMemoriam
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🎙 Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s interview with the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting media corporation (Moscow, December 15, 2025)
Read in full
Key points:
• Throughout history, Europe has repeatedly been a source of all evil and spawn of deepest crises. <...> Europe is now trying again to dictate to everyone its terms and wishes which seem to be connected with the Ukraine crisis.
• Europe is using it to assert itself, to throw sand in the wheels and scheme against the United States and all those who seek a just settlement.
• The theory and practices of Nazism are being resurrected in Europe, primarily in Brussels but also in Berlin, London, Paris, not to mention the Baltic States.
• Europe is waging a war with us once again with Ukrainians under a Nazi flag, <...> pumping Ukraine with increasingly more modern weapons.
• One of major purposes [of the new US National Security Strategy] is to make Europe know its place and to prevent it from imposing its liberal ways
• The United States wants to set up its policy for opposing China. <...> We are not against competition, however, it should be fair.
• Europeans have theft running in their blood, which we can see from the example of “frozen” Russian assets. By the way, Iranian assets are also partially frozen like Venezuelan assets and assets of many other countries.
• The West, including the United States, do not always has enough power to maintain its domination, and thus they have to resort to dirty, anti-democratic and anti-market methods.
• The West is planning and trying to split the group of the five Caspian states and impose decisions which will not get a consensus of the Caspian countries.
• The second outrageous example is Palestine. Not only was the UN Security Council resolution violated in this case, but also a great number of resolutions of both the Security Council and the UN General Assembly.
• The last year’s developments around the Iranian nuclear programme, the absolutely outrageous illegitimate actions by Europeans, the attempts to put the blame on the Islamic Republic of Iran for the collapse of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (#JCPOA), <...> reaffirms that the entire world order is being subject to most severe tests.
• When Iran was attacked by Israel followed by the United States, we condemned those actions as having absolutely nothing to do with international legality. The key is that so far no one has offered any clear evidence that Iran has violated something, neither the IAEA, nor the Israelis, nor the Americans.
• Russia is firm in its commitment to ensuring the Islamic Republic of Iran its unconditional right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy, just as any other country.
• Russia and Iran signed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty. We will always support Iran and promote its legitimate rights.
• Our bilateral plans [with Iran] are serious enough as are our plans of cooperation in the world arena. I mean in #BRICS, the #SCO and the #EAEU. This includes the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
• We are also engaged in investment cooperation. In addition to the North–South corridor, there is also such a flagship project as the Bushehr NPP – its construction is ongoing.
• There is a promising format that will help strengthen security in the [Middle East] – I am referring to the relations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Gulf Cooperation Council (#GCC).
• There is the Collective Security Treaty Organisation, and we want to work with the Islamic Republic of Iran and with other neighbouring countries, including within this organisation’s framework.
• In recent months, the Islamist Republic has made it clear that it is not seeking war or new conflicts.
• In the United States and certain countries of Europe <...> there are people who have been speaking out in favour of reviving the arms limitation and control frameworks, including transparency measures. Iran and Russia have been proactive in backing this approach.
Read in full
Key points:
• Throughout history, Europe has repeatedly been a source of all evil and spawn of deepest crises. <...> Europe is now trying again to dictate to everyone its terms and wishes which seem to be connected with the Ukraine crisis.
• Europe is using it to assert itself, to throw sand in the wheels and scheme against the United States and all those who seek a just settlement.
• The theory and practices of Nazism are being resurrected in Europe, primarily in Brussels but also in Berlin, London, Paris, not to mention the Baltic States.
• Europe is waging a war with us once again with Ukrainians under a Nazi flag, <...> pumping Ukraine with increasingly more modern weapons.
• One of major purposes [of the new US National Security Strategy] is to make Europe know its place and to prevent it from imposing its liberal ways
• The United States wants to set up its policy for opposing China. <...> We are not against competition, however, it should be fair.
• Europeans have theft running in their blood, which we can see from the example of “frozen” Russian assets. By the way, Iranian assets are also partially frozen like Venezuelan assets and assets of many other countries.
• The West, including the United States, do not always has enough power to maintain its domination, and thus they have to resort to dirty, anti-democratic and anti-market methods.
• The West is planning and trying to split the group of the five Caspian states and impose decisions which will not get a consensus of the Caspian countries.
• The second outrageous example is Palestine. Not only was the UN Security Council resolution violated in this case, but also a great number of resolutions of both the Security Council and the UN General Assembly.
• The last year’s developments around the Iranian nuclear programme, the absolutely outrageous illegitimate actions by Europeans, the attempts to put the blame on the Islamic Republic of Iran for the collapse of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (#JCPOA), <...> reaffirms that the entire world order is being subject to most severe tests.
• When Iran was attacked by Israel followed by the United States, we condemned those actions as having absolutely nothing to do with international legality. The key is that so far no one has offered any clear evidence that Iran has violated something, neither the IAEA, nor the Israelis, nor the Americans.
• Russia is firm in its commitment to ensuring the Islamic Republic of Iran its unconditional right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy, just as any other country.
• Russia and Iran signed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty. We will always support Iran and promote its legitimate rights.
• Our bilateral plans [with Iran] are serious enough as are our plans of cooperation in the world arena. I mean in #BRICS, the #SCO and the #EAEU. This includes the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
• We are also engaged in investment cooperation. In addition to the North–South corridor, there is also such a flagship project as the Bushehr NPP – its construction is ongoing.
• There is a promising format that will help strengthen security in the [Middle East] – I am referring to the relations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Gulf Cooperation Council (#GCC).
• There is the Collective Security Treaty Organisation, and we want to work with the Islamic Republic of Iran and with other neighbouring countries, including within this organisation’s framework.
• In recent months, the Islamist Republic has made it clear that it is not seeking war or new conflicts.
• In the United States and certain countries of Europe <...> there are people who have been speaking out in favour of reviving the arms limitation and control frameworks, including transparency measures. Iran and Russia have been proactive in backing this approach.
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🎙 Briefing by Russia's Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova (Moscow, December 11, 2025)
🔹 #KievRegimeCrimes
🔹 Ukraine crisis
🔹 Russia-Africa Partnership Forum
🔹 Report on Russian citizens and compatriots abroad
🔹 Impact of anti-Russian restrictions on their authors
🔹 Thailand–Cambodia border situation
🔹 Detention of Russian scholar in Poland
📖 Read
📺 Watch
***
#KievRegimeCrimes
The Kiev neo-Nazi regime continues to commit war crimes and acts of terrorism against Russia. In just the past week, attacks from Ukrainian artillery and UAVs have affected 65 civilians in our regions; seven of them were killed, with another 58 wounded, including one child.
<...>
Representatives of the Kiev junta, including Zelensky’s wife Yelena, use every international venue to promote the false narrative of “Ukrainian children kidnapped by Russia,” describing “their suffering under occupation” and accusing Russia of “changing their identity.”
In reality, Zelensky himself and his wife, as well as the anti-people regime led by him, are the main enemy of Ukrainians of all ages, including minors.
The official authorities, teachers, caregivers, bloggers, and language activists target Russian-speaking children with impunity, calling them “wrong children” and demanding that they “set things right.” What is this if not an attempt to forcibly change their language identity?
#Thailand #Cambodia
Russia has maintained traditional relations of friendship and cooperation with Thailand and Cambodia.
In this context, the new escalation of the confrontation on the border between these two friendly nations of Russia involving the use of heavy weapons has become a matter of grave concern.
We call on both Sides to exercise restraint for avoiding civilian casualties, resume dialogue as quickly as possible in order to achieve a ceasefire and a complete settlement of this conflict.
Territorial disputes of this kind result from the West’s long-standing colonial policy. Today, amid the apparent deterioration in the global security environment, relying on ASEAN’s spirit of unity and solidarity has special importance for overcoming historical differences.
#UK #Skripals
On December 4, 2025, a 178-page report of “an independent public inquiry” into the death of Dawn Sturgess, who died in Amesbury in July 2018, allegedly from Novichok poisoning, has been presented to the British parliament.
Just as we expected, that pseudo-public inquiry was initiated and carried out by the British establishment to persuade the public to accept the unsubstantiated anti-Russian version of the events, according to which the death of Dawn Sturgess was directly connected with the alleged poisoning of the Skripals.
This is obviously yet another flagrant lie concocted by the British for none other than its own allies.
A politicised and non-transparent nature of that “public inquiry” clearly shows that London never wanted to conduct a just and objective investigation. Its security services and law enforcement agencies, as well as its politicians of all stripes, have long been using these incidents as evidential proof of the “Russian threat.” The British used them to launch the sanctions campaign and create new pretexts for accusing Russia of espionage, arson, and cyberattacks. It was obviously an orchestrated operation aimed at damaging the international prestige of Russia and its leaders.
#Poland #FreeButyagin
Reports have surfaced regarding the detention in Poland of a Russian scholar Alexander Butyagin.
Alexander Butyagin is an employee of the State Hermitage Museum. We consider the charges levelled against this distinguished Russian archaeologist – accusing him of “destroying cultural heritage” on Russian territory – to be utterly absurd.
It is completely obvious to us that this is nothing more than a political provocation, lacking any legal merit.
We will persist in demanding the immediate release of Alexander Butyagin.
🔹 #KievRegimeCrimes
🔹 Ukraine crisis
🔹 Russia-Africa Partnership Forum
🔹 Report on Russian citizens and compatriots abroad
🔹 Impact of anti-Russian restrictions on their authors
🔹 Thailand–Cambodia border situation
🔹 Detention of Russian scholar in Poland
📖 Read
📺 Watch
***
#KievRegimeCrimes
The Kiev neo-Nazi regime continues to commit war crimes and acts of terrorism against Russia. In just the past week, attacks from Ukrainian artillery and UAVs have affected 65 civilians in our regions; seven of them were killed, with another 58 wounded, including one child.
<...>
Representatives of the Kiev junta, including Zelensky’s wife Yelena, use every international venue to promote the false narrative of “Ukrainian children kidnapped by Russia,” describing “their suffering under occupation” and accusing Russia of “changing their identity.”
In reality, Zelensky himself and his wife, as well as the anti-people regime led by him, are the main enemy of Ukrainians of all ages, including minors.
The official authorities, teachers, caregivers, bloggers, and language activists target Russian-speaking children with impunity, calling them “wrong children” and demanding that they “set things right.” What is this if not an attempt to forcibly change their language identity?
#Thailand #Cambodia
Russia has maintained traditional relations of friendship and cooperation with Thailand and Cambodia.
In this context, the new escalation of the confrontation on the border between these two friendly nations of Russia involving the use of heavy weapons has become a matter of grave concern.
We call on both Sides to exercise restraint for avoiding civilian casualties, resume dialogue as quickly as possible in order to achieve a ceasefire and a complete settlement of this conflict.
Territorial disputes of this kind result from the West’s long-standing colonial policy. Today, amid the apparent deterioration in the global security environment, relying on ASEAN’s spirit of unity and solidarity has special importance for overcoming historical differences.
#UK #Skripals
On December 4, 2025, a 178-page report of “an independent public inquiry” into the death of Dawn Sturgess, who died in Amesbury in July 2018, allegedly from Novichok poisoning, has been presented to the British parliament.
Just as we expected, that pseudo-public inquiry was initiated and carried out by the British establishment to persuade the public to accept the unsubstantiated anti-Russian version of the events, according to which the death of Dawn Sturgess was directly connected with the alleged poisoning of the Skripals.
This is obviously yet another flagrant lie concocted by the British for none other than its own allies.
A politicised and non-transparent nature of that “public inquiry” clearly shows that London never wanted to conduct a just and objective investigation. Its security services and law enforcement agencies, as well as its politicians of all stripes, have long been using these incidents as evidential proof of the “Russian threat.” The British used them to launch the sanctions campaign and create new pretexts for accusing Russia of espionage, arson, and cyberattacks. It was obviously an orchestrated operation aimed at damaging the international prestige of Russia and its leaders.
#Poland #FreeButyagin
Reports have surfaced regarding the detention in Poland of a Russian scholar Alexander Butyagin.
Alexander Butyagin is an employee of the State Hermitage Museum. We consider the charges levelled against this distinguished Russian archaeologist – accusing him of “destroying cultural heritage” on Russian territory – to be utterly absurd.
It is completely obvious to us that this is nothing more than a political provocation, lacking any legal merit.
We will persist in demanding the immediate release of Alexander Butyagin.
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
✉️ Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s greetings to participants in the event dedicated to inaugurating Kazan as Cultural Capital of the Islamic World in 2026 (December 15, 2025)
💬 Ladies and gentlemen, colleagues, friends,
I am delighted to welcome the ambassadors of the member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), representatives of the federal authorities, members of the delegation of the Republic of Tatarstan, the leaders of religious associations, and all other guests.
Russia as the largest Eurasian power and a civilisational state has traditionally maintained honest relations with Islamic countries based on mutual trust.
An absolute majority of Muslim countries are our long-time friends and partners. We are united by our strong commitment to building a more just multipolar world on the principles of the UN Charter in their entirety, interconnection and as a whole, and on the values of equal and indivisible security.
☝️ We are firmly committed to respect for the cultural and civilisational diversity of nations, and their natural right to freely choose their development paths.
In this connection, we regard the decision of the 13th Conference of the Ministers of Culture of the Islamic World, organised by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (ICESCO), to declare Kazan as the Cultural Capital of the Islamic World in 2026 as recognition of our multinational and multifaith country’s achievements in the preservation of the rich historical heritage of our peoples.
The choice of the capital of Tatarstan was well-deserved. Kazan is a vibrant and distinctive city standing at the crossroads of cultures and religions. People of different nationalities and confessions have lived here in peace and harmony for centuries. I am confident that this model of harmonious coexistence can set a good example for many other countries.
Taken together, this makes Kazan a unique venue for demonstrating Russia’s diversity, developing an inter-civilisational and interfaith dialogue, and promoting the values of peace, mutual understanding and tolerance.
I have no doubt that the events planned for the large-scale programme in 2026 will help promote the best achievements of Russia’s culture and strengthen humanitarian ties between Russia and the Islamic world, and friendship and trust between our nations.
🤝 I look forward to seeing you in hospitable Kazan.
SERGEY LAVROV
💬 Ladies and gentlemen, colleagues, friends,
I am delighted to welcome the ambassadors of the member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), representatives of the federal authorities, members of the delegation of the Republic of Tatarstan, the leaders of religious associations, and all other guests.
Russia as the largest Eurasian power and a civilisational state has traditionally maintained honest relations with Islamic countries based on mutual trust.
An absolute majority of Muslim countries are our long-time friends and partners. We are united by our strong commitment to building a more just multipolar world on the principles of the UN Charter in their entirety, interconnection and as a whole, and on the values of equal and indivisible security.
☝️ We are firmly committed to respect for the cultural and civilisational diversity of nations, and their natural right to freely choose their development paths.
In this connection, we regard the decision of the 13th Conference of the Ministers of Culture of the Islamic World, organised by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (ICESCO), to declare Kazan as the Cultural Capital of the Islamic World in 2026 as recognition of our multinational and multifaith country’s achievements in the preservation of the rich historical heritage of our peoples.
The choice of the capital of Tatarstan was well-deserved. Kazan is a vibrant and distinctive city standing at the crossroads of cultures and religions. People of different nationalities and confessions have lived here in peace and harmony for centuries. I am confident that this model of harmonious coexistence can set a good example for many other countries.
Taken together, this makes Kazan a unique venue for demonstrating Russia’s diversity, developing an inter-civilisational and interfaith dialogue, and promoting the values of peace, mutual understanding and tolerance.
I have no doubt that the events planned for the large-scale programme in 2026 will help promote the best achievements of Russia’s culture and strengthen humanitarian ties between Russia and the Islamic world, and friendship and trust between our nations.
🤝 I look forward to seeing you in hospitable Kazan.
SERGEY LAVROV
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🇰🇿 On December 16, #Kazakhstan celebrates #IndependenceDay.
This national holiday in the country symbolises the nation’s unity and represents the spirit of patriotism and freedom.
Since declaring independence, Kazakhstan has achieved impressive social and economic success. Thanks to its leadership’s wisdom and competence, the Republic is today a powerful, influential and highly respectable actor, with an important constructive role in international affairs.
Our countries and peoples are bound by similar cultural, spiritual and moral values, centuries-old friendship and shared experience of living in the same state, with shared achievements and victories.
Kazakhstan and Russia are closest partners, friends and reliable allies. The relations between Moscow and Astana constitute a strategic partnership and alliance built on long-standing historical ties of friendship, mutual trust and respect for each other’s interests.
🇷🇺🤝🇰🇿 Learn more about the development of Russia-Kazakhstan cooperation in our in-depth feature on the 33rd Anniversary of the diplomatic relations between our countries
***
Russia and Kazakhstan maintain an intensive and substantive bilateral political dialogue at the high and highest levels. Our Leaders, who have forged a close and warm personal relationship over the years of working together, hold meetings and telephone conversations on a regular basis, 'compare notes' on the topical bilateral agenda, as well as regional and global issues.
In October 2024, President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin paid a state visit to Kazakhstan. On November 11-12, 2025, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev was in our country with the state visit as well.
Following the talks between the two Leaders in Moscow and Astana, a substantive package of documents, significantly supplementing the architecture of our multifaceted bilateral cooperation, was signed. One of the documents is the the Declaration on the Transition of Interstate Relations between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Level of Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and Alliance (November 12, 2025).
📈 Russia is a leading trade, economic and investment partner for Kazakhstan. As of 2024, our bilateral trade reached a historic high, exceeding $28.7 billion. This level has been maintained, with $20 billion over the nine months of this year in turnover.
There are more than 17'000 enterprises with Russian assets in Kazakhstan. The Republic’s economy has accumulated a sizable volume of Russian investment. Over 60 major joint Russia-Kazakhstani projects cover all key sectors of the national economy. Thanks to our mutual efforts, the bilateral transactions are almost fully performed in national currencies. Interregional links are also developing dynamically.
Moscow and Astana extensively cooperate throughout international platforms. To a certain extent, our countries were initiators of the integration across the post-Soviet state, standing at the Founding-Fathers of the Eurasian Economic Union (#EAEU) and enjoying a fruitful cooperation within #CIS, #CSTO and #SCO. Kazakhstan supports Russia’s initiative on building an architecture of equal and indivisible security in #Eurasia.
🌐 #MultipolarWorld: Russia and Kazakhstan are at the forefront of promoting a more just multipolar international order, speaking from similar positions when it comes to the key role of international law in international relations and considering the interests of all countries in global security issues.
🎊 We extend our cordial and heartfelt congratulations to our Kazakhstani colleagues and friends on their national holiday! We wish you success and prosperity!
#RussiaKazakhstan
This national holiday in the country symbolises the nation’s unity and represents the spirit of patriotism and freedom.
Since declaring independence, Kazakhstan has achieved impressive social and economic success. Thanks to its leadership’s wisdom and competence, the Republic is today a powerful, influential and highly respectable actor, with an important constructive role in international affairs.
Our countries and peoples are bound by similar cultural, spiritual and moral values, centuries-old friendship and shared experience of living in the same state, with shared achievements and victories.
Kazakhstan and Russia are closest partners, friends and reliable allies. The relations between Moscow and Astana constitute a strategic partnership and alliance built on long-standing historical ties of friendship, mutual trust and respect for each other’s interests.
🇷🇺🤝🇰🇿 Learn more about the development of Russia-Kazakhstan cooperation in our in-depth feature on the 33rd Anniversary of the diplomatic relations between our countries
***
Russia and Kazakhstan maintain an intensive and substantive bilateral political dialogue at the high and highest levels. Our Leaders, who have forged a close and warm personal relationship over the years of working together, hold meetings and telephone conversations on a regular basis, 'compare notes' on the topical bilateral agenda, as well as regional and global issues.
In October 2024, President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin paid a state visit to Kazakhstan. On November 11-12, 2025, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev was in our country with the state visit as well.
Following the talks between the two Leaders in Moscow and Astana, a substantive package of documents, significantly supplementing the architecture of our multifaceted bilateral cooperation, was signed. One of the documents is the the Declaration on the Transition of Interstate Relations between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Level of Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and Alliance (November 12, 2025).
📈 Russia is a leading trade, economic and investment partner for Kazakhstan. As of 2024, our bilateral trade reached a historic high, exceeding $28.7 billion. This level has been maintained, with $20 billion over the nine months of this year in turnover.
There are more than 17'000 enterprises with Russian assets in Kazakhstan. The Republic’s economy has accumulated a sizable volume of Russian investment. Over 60 major joint Russia-Kazakhstani projects cover all key sectors of the national economy. Thanks to our mutual efforts, the bilateral transactions are almost fully performed in national currencies. Interregional links are also developing dynamically.
Moscow and Astana extensively cooperate throughout international platforms. To a certain extent, our countries were initiators of the integration across the post-Soviet state, standing at the Founding-Fathers of the Eurasian Economic Union (#EAEU) and enjoying a fruitful cooperation within #CIS, #CSTO and #SCO. Kazakhstan supports Russia’s initiative on building an architecture of equal and indivisible security in #Eurasia.
🌐 #MultipolarWorld: Russia and Kazakhstan are at the forefront of promoting a more just multipolar international order, speaking from similar positions when it comes to the key role of international law in international relations and considering the interests of all countries in global security issues.
🎊 We extend our cordial and heartfelt congratulations to our Kazakhstani colleagues and friends on their national holiday! We wish you success and prosperity!
#RussiaKazakhstan
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🎙 Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s remarks at the 45th meeting of the Foreign Ministry’s Council of Heads of Constituent Entities of the Russian Federation on the #Arctic dimension of region-to-region ties (Moscow, December 16, 2025)
Read in full
💬 Sergey Lavrov: Today’s meeting focuses on the Arctic dimension of the region-to-region ties. Let me tell you right away that even in the northern latitudes the negative trends affecting the situation around the world, including growing military and political tension and illegal sanctions, can be felt. The degradation of effective multilateral cooperation mechanisms was one of the consequences resulting from the West’s commitment to confrontation. The Russian Federation used to be part of several now-defunct mechanisms of this kind.
In fact, the Arctic Council is the only remaining intergovernmental format. It has been in a state of relative suspension since March 2022, even if it did not stop working. There were no attempts to change its composition at the expense of Russia’s interests. Our colleagues may have moved in this direction but these aspirations have not materialised. Overall, there has been some progress within what we view as a very important body.
The Arctic Council held its 14th session at the level of senior officials on May 12, 2025, in the so-called hybrid format with some taking part in-person and some joining the event via videoconference. Adopted as an outcome document, the joint statement reflects several aspects which have principled importance for us, including the commitment to peace, stability and cooperation in the Arctic, as well as the need to reinforce the Arctic Council.
This may seem rather obvious but in today’s environment with the West locked in its frenzied attempts to punish Russia and defeat it on the battlefield, as they say, and also on the diplomatic front, this wording and the fact that there were no Russia-hating assessments injected into the document is an achievement in itself.
We do understand, however, that this stems from the recognition by some in the West, including those in charge of the Arctic Council, that their attempts to isolate Russia are futile, just as it is futile to treat our actions to ensure justice, respect for human rights and the assert the principle of indivisible security in Ukraine as some kind of an aggressive policy, as we have been hearing from European leaders who have lost their bearings. The Arctic Council has every chance to retain its importance.
In the current geopolitical climate, we are not only working to preserve this important institution but are also actively promoting cooperation with non-regional states interested in responsible and equitable partnership in the High North. <...> A key priority is our joint effort to develop the transport and logistics potential of the Northern Sea Route. <...>
Further evidence of growing international interest was a thematic roundtable held at the 10th Eastern Economic Forum in September, co-organised by the Russian Foreign Ministry with the Rosatom State Corporation. <...>
We will continue to strengthen mutually beneficial ties with Asian and other partners and to support our northern territories, businesses, and civil society. Special attention will be paid to protecting the interests of the Arctic’s indigenous peoples, including through various international forums.
<...>
❗️I am confident that our country’s Arctic policy will maintain its balanced and pragmatic character. #Arctic4You
We will continue working purposefully to meet the objectives set by the national leadership. As President Vladimir Putin emphasised at the Eastern Economic Forum this September, extensive development is underway in the Far East and the Arctic, and we are open to all who wish to participate. Naturally, such participation must be based on equality, respect for Russian interests, and the fundamental principles governing our cooperation with foreign partners in the Russian Arctic.
Read in full
💬 Sergey Lavrov: Today’s meeting focuses on the Arctic dimension of the region-to-region ties. Let me tell you right away that even in the northern latitudes the negative trends affecting the situation around the world, including growing military and political tension and illegal sanctions, can be felt. The degradation of effective multilateral cooperation mechanisms was one of the consequences resulting from the West’s commitment to confrontation. The Russian Federation used to be part of several now-defunct mechanisms of this kind.
In fact, the Arctic Council is the only remaining intergovernmental format. It has been in a state of relative suspension since March 2022, even if it did not stop working. There were no attempts to change its composition at the expense of Russia’s interests. Our colleagues may have moved in this direction but these aspirations have not materialised. Overall, there has been some progress within what we view as a very important body.
The Arctic Council held its 14th session at the level of senior officials on May 12, 2025, in the so-called hybrid format with some taking part in-person and some joining the event via videoconference. Adopted as an outcome document, the joint statement reflects several aspects which have principled importance for us, including the commitment to peace, stability and cooperation in the Arctic, as well as the need to reinforce the Arctic Council.
This may seem rather obvious but in today’s environment with the West locked in its frenzied attempts to punish Russia and defeat it on the battlefield, as they say, and also on the diplomatic front, this wording and the fact that there were no Russia-hating assessments injected into the document is an achievement in itself.
We do understand, however, that this stems from the recognition by some in the West, including those in charge of the Arctic Council, that their attempts to isolate Russia are futile, just as it is futile to treat our actions to ensure justice, respect for human rights and the assert the principle of indivisible security in Ukraine as some kind of an aggressive policy, as we have been hearing from European leaders who have lost their bearings. The Arctic Council has every chance to retain its importance.
In the current geopolitical climate, we are not only working to preserve this important institution but are also actively promoting cooperation with non-regional states interested in responsible and equitable partnership in the High North. <...> A key priority is our joint effort to develop the transport and logistics potential of the Northern Sea Route. <...>
Further evidence of growing international interest was a thematic roundtable held at the 10th Eastern Economic Forum in September, co-organised by the Russian Foreign Ministry with the Rosatom State Corporation. <...>
We will continue to strengthen mutually beneficial ties with Asian and other partners and to support our northern territories, businesses, and civil society. Special attention will be paid to protecting the interests of the Arctic’s indigenous peoples, including through various international forums.
<...>
❗️I am confident that our country’s Arctic policy will maintain its balanced and pragmatic character. #Arctic4You
We will continue working purposefully to meet the objectives set by the national leadership. As President Vladimir Putin emphasised at the Eastern Economic Forum this September, extensive development is underway in the Far East and the Arctic, and we are open to all who wish to participate. Naturally, such participation must be based on equality, respect for Russian interests, and the fundamental principles governing our cooperation with foreign partners in the Russian Arctic.
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
⚡️ On the adoption of a UNGA resolution combating the glorification of Nazism
At the December 15 plenary session of the 80th United Nations General Assembly, a resolution noscriptd “Combating the Glorification of Nazism, Neo-Nazism and Other Practices That Contribute to Fueling Contemporary Forms of Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance” was adopted. The resolution was spearheaded by the Russian Federation.
The resolution garnered the support of 44 co-sponsoring states from various global regions.
✅ It was endorsed by 119 votes, opposed by 51 delegations, with 10 countries abstaining.
This resolution on combating the glorification of Nazism lays the groundwork for countering the falsification of history and efforts to revise the outcomes of the Second World War on an international platform.
It condemns the glorification of the Nazi movement and former SS members, including Waffen-SS units, deemed criminal by the Nuremberg Trials. The resolution expresses profound outrage at the rehabilitation of Hitler’s collaborators and attempts to elevate them to the status of national heroes, manifesting in torchlight processions, street renaming, and the erection of memorials.
The document articulates serious concern over the ongoing campaign against monuments dedicated to anti-Nazi and anti-fascist fighters and liberating soldiers in some countries, which has increasingly assumed the guise of state policy. Simultaneously, it expresses strong indignation at efforts by certain nations to prohibit symbols associated with Victory over Nazism.
The resolution particularly underscores that such actions desecrate the memory of the countless victims of Nazism, negatively impacting younger generations and being utterly incompatible with the obligations of UN member states under the Organisation’s Charter.
Furthermore, the resolution upholds the principle of inadmissibility of any ideology promoting the superiority of specific population groups based on racial, ethnic, religious affiliations, or similar criteria. This is particularly relevant in light of the persistent rise in Islamophobia, Christianophobia, Afro-phobia, Arabophobia, Russophobia, and anti-Semitism, notably in the collective West.
It is emblematic that this very political bloc, year after year, seeks to obstruct the adoption of the Russian initiative, resorting to unscrupulous procedural tactics, and consistently votes against international efforts to combat aggressive manifestations of racism and xenophobia. Of particular concern are the positions of Germany, Italy, and Japan, as former Axis members. Their indulgence of perilous trends raises questions about the sincerity of their contrition for crimes committed during the Second World War.
❗️The voting results clearly demonstrate that the global majority stands in solidarity with Russia’s approaches to combating the glorification of Nazism.
This is especially symbolic in the year commemorating the 80th anniversary of Victory over Nazism in the Second World War, the founding of the United Nations, and the establishment of the Nuremberg Trials.
☝️ Moscow is convinced that the adoption of this thematic resolution will significantly contribute to the eradication of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance.
At the December 15 plenary session of the 80th United Nations General Assembly, a resolution noscriptd “Combating the Glorification of Nazism, Neo-Nazism and Other Practices That Contribute to Fueling Contemporary Forms of Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance” was adopted. The resolution was spearheaded by the Russian Federation.
The resolution garnered the support of 44 co-sponsoring states from various global regions.
✅ It was endorsed by 119 votes, opposed by 51 delegations, with 10 countries abstaining.
This resolution on combating the glorification of Nazism lays the groundwork for countering the falsification of history and efforts to revise the outcomes of the Second World War on an international platform.
It condemns the glorification of the Nazi movement and former SS members, including Waffen-SS units, deemed criminal by the Nuremberg Trials. The resolution expresses profound outrage at the rehabilitation of Hitler’s collaborators and attempts to elevate them to the status of national heroes, manifesting in torchlight processions, street renaming, and the erection of memorials.
The document articulates serious concern over the ongoing campaign against monuments dedicated to anti-Nazi and anti-fascist fighters and liberating soldiers in some countries, which has increasingly assumed the guise of state policy. Simultaneously, it expresses strong indignation at efforts by certain nations to prohibit symbols associated with Victory over Nazism.
The resolution particularly underscores that such actions desecrate the memory of the countless victims of Nazism, negatively impacting younger generations and being utterly incompatible with the obligations of UN member states under the Organisation’s Charter.
Furthermore, the resolution upholds the principle of inadmissibility of any ideology promoting the superiority of specific population groups based on racial, ethnic, religious affiliations, or similar criteria. This is particularly relevant in light of the persistent rise in Islamophobia, Christianophobia, Afro-phobia, Arabophobia, Russophobia, and anti-Semitism, notably in the collective West.
It is emblematic that this very political bloc, year after year, seeks to obstruct the adoption of the Russian initiative, resorting to unscrupulous procedural tactics, and consistently votes against international efforts to combat aggressive manifestations of racism and xenophobia. Of particular concern are the positions of Germany, Italy, and Japan, as former Axis members. Their indulgence of perilous trends raises questions about the sincerity of their contrition for crimes committed during the Second World War.
❗️The voting results clearly demonstrate that the global majority stands in solidarity with Russia’s approaches to combating the glorification of Nazism.
This is especially symbolic in the year commemorating the 80th anniversary of Victory over Nazism in the Second World War, the founding of the United Nations, and the establishment of the Nuremberg Trials.
☝️ Moscow is convinced that the adoption of this thematic resolution will significantly contribute to the eradication of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance.
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🎙 Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s opening remarks at talks with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran Abbas Araghchi (Moscow, December 17, 2025)
💬 Sergey Lavrov: Mr Minister, my Dear Friend, colleagues,
We are delighted to welcome you to Moscow. I know that your delegation has a busy programme. You have just delivered a lecture at MGIMO University, the alma mater of many people in this room.
We appreciate the regular trust-based communication between our Ministries conducted in the spirit of a frank and comradely dialogue between our Leaders.
The fact that it is our fifth meeting in 2025 (1, 2, 3, 4) says a lot about the coordination of our foreign policy activities. Today, we will sign our plan of consultations between our Ministries for 2026-2028.
It is obvious that the main landmark event in our relations this year was the signing and entry into force of the Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which has formalised the special nature of our cooperation and set out guidelines in all priority areas for the next 20 years.
During their meeting in Ashgabat several days ago, Presidents Vladimir Putin and Masoud Pezeshkian discussed the tasks formulated in that fundamental document. Today, we have an opportunity to discuss our foreign policy contribution to the fulfilment of relevant tasks.
We will give special consideration to various regional and international situations in order to strengthen and enhance our coordination regarding them, including Iran’s nuclear programme, the situation in the Middle East, primarily in the Palestinian territories, and several other traditional issues on the agenda of our talks.
I am delighted to see you.
Welcome to Moscow.
🇷🇺🇮🇷 #RussiaIran
💬 Sergey Lavrov: Mr Minister, my Dear Friend, colleagues,
We are delighted to welcome you to Moscow. I know that your delegation has a busy programme. You have just delivered a lecture at MGIMO University, the alma mater of many people in this room.
We appreciate the regular trust-based communication between our Ministries conducted in the spirit of a frank and comradely dialogue between our Leaders.
The fact that it is our fifth meeting in 2025 (1, 2, 3, 4) says a lot about the coordination of our foreign policy activities. Today, we will sign our plan of consultations between our Ministries for 2026-2028.
It is obvious that the main landmark event in our relations this year was the signing and entry into force of the Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which has formalised the special nature of our cooperation and set out guidelines in all priority areas for the next 20 years.
During their meeting in Ashgabat several days ago, Presidents Vladimir Putin and Masoud Pezeshkian discussed the tasks formulated in that fundamental document. Today, we have an opportunity to discuss our foreign policy contribution to the fulfilment of relevant tasks.
We will give special consideration to various regional and international situations in order to strengthen and enhance our coordination regarding them, including Iran’s nuclear programme, the situation in the Middle East, primarily in the Palestinian territories, and several other traditional issues on the agenda of our talks.
I am delighted to see you.
Welcome to Moscow.
🇷🇺🇮🇷 #RussiaIran
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🎙 Statement by President of Russia Vladimir Putin at the expanded meeting of Russia's Ministry of Defence Board (December 17, 2025, Moscow)
Key points:
• 2025 has become an important milestone in addressing the objectives of the special military operation. The Russian Armed Forces have secured and firmly maintain the strategic initiative along the entire line of contact.
• In 2025, more than 300 settlements have already been liberated, including major cities that had been turned by the adversary into fortified strongholds.
🇷🇺🇰🇵 I would also like to note our North Korean combat comrades. By decision of Comrade Chairman of the State Affairs of the DPRK Kim Jong-un, they were dispatched to take part in the liberation of the Kursk region and, shoulder to shoulder with Russian servicemen, fought the enemy with valour and courage. They took part in large-scale and extremely complex efforts to clear mines from the liberated Kursk region.
• Successful tests have been conducted of the Burevestnik strategic cruise missile with unlimited range and the Poseidon unmanned underwater vehicle. Thanks to the use of a nuclear power unit, these systems will remain unique and unmatched for a long time, ensuring strategic parity, Russia’s security and its global standing for decades to come. We will continue working on these systems – refining, upgrading and improving them – but they already exist. By the end of 2025, an intermediate-range missile system equipped with the Oreshnik hypersonic missile will be placed on combat duty.
❗️ Russia has always, even in the most difficult circumstances, as long as there was even the slightest chance – sought diplomatic solutions to contradictions and conflicts. Responsibility for the fact that these chances were not used lies entirely with those who believed that it was possible to speak to us in the language of force.
• We stand for building mutually beneficial and equal cooperation with the US and European states, and for the formation of a unified security system across the entire Eurasian region. We welcome the progress that has emerged in the dialogue with the new US Administration. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of the current leadership of most European countries.
• We are fully aware that in any international environment, our Armed Forces remain the key guarantor of Russia’s sovereignty and independence, its security and future, and of strategic parity. We must work consistently to strengthen them.
• Immediately after the collapse of the Soviet Union, it seemed to us that we would very quickly become part of the so-called civilized family of European nations. Instead, Russia continued to be pressed from all sides – increasingly so. Virtually everything concerning Russia was decided from a position of force. They would pat us on the shoulder and invite us to various events, yet when it came to their interests vis-à-vis Russia, the West pushed them through by force, including by military means.
• President Trump says that if he had been President at the time, the conflict in Ukraine would not have happened. Perhaps that is so, because the previous US Administration deliberately steered the events towards an armed conflict.
👉 The objectives of the special military operation will undoubtedly be achieved. We would prefer to do so and to eliminate the root causes of the conflict through diplomatic means. However, if the opposing side and its foreign patrons refuse to engage in a substantive dialogue, Russia will secure the liberation of its historical lands by military means. Efforts to establish and expand a security buffer zone will continue on a systematic basis.
Read in full
Key points:
• 2025 has become an important milestone in addressing the objectives of the special military operation. The Russian Armed Forces have secured and firmly maintain the strategic initiative along the entire line of contact.
• In 2025, more than 300 settlements have already been liberated, including major cities that had been turned by the adversary into fortified strongholds.
🇷🇺🇰🇵 I would also like to note our North Korean combat comrades. By decision of Comrade Chairman of the State Affairs of the DPRK Kim Jong-un, they were dispatched to take part in the liberation of the Kursk region and, shoulder to shoulder with Russian servicemen, fought the enemy with valour and courage. They took part in large-scale and extremely complex efforts to clear mines from the liberated Kursk region.
• Successful tests have been conducted of the Burevestnik strategic cruise missile with unlimited range and the Poseidon unmanned underwater vehicle. Thanks to the use of a nuclear power unit, these systems will remain unique and unmatched for a long time, ensuring strategic parity, Russia’s security and its global standing for decades to come. We will continue working on these systems – refining, upgrading and improving them – but they already exist. By the end of 2025, an intermediate-range missile system equipped with the Oreshnik hypersonic missile will be placed on combat duty.
❗️ Russia has always, even in the most difficult circumstances, as long as there was even the slightest chance – sought diplomatic solutions to contradictions and conflicts. Responsibility for the fact that these chances were not used lies entirely with those who believed that it was possible to speak to us in the language of force.
• We stand for building mutually beneficial and equal cooperation with the US and European states, and for the formation of a unified security system across the entire Eurasian region. We welcome the progress that has emerged in the dialogue with the new US Administration. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of the current leadership of most European countries.
• We are fully aware that in any international environment, our Armed Forces remain the key guarantor of Russia’s sovereignty and independence, its security and future, and of strategic parity. We must work consistently to strengthen them.
• Immediately after the collapse of the Soviet Union, it seemed to us that we would very quickly become part of the so-called civilized family of European nations. Instead, Russia continued to be pressed from all sides – increasingly so. Virtually everything concerning Russia was decided from a position of force. They would pat us on the shoulder and invite us to various events, yet when it came to their interests vis-à-vis Russia, the West pushed them through by force, including by military means.
• President Trump says that if he had been President at the time, the conflict in Ukraine would not have happened. Perhaps that is so, because the previous US Administration deliberately steered the events towards an armed conflict.
👉 The objectives of the special military operation will undoubtedly be achieved. We would prefer to do so and to eliminate the root causes of the conflict through diplomatic means. However, if the opposing side and its foreign patrons refuse to engage in a substantive dialogue, Russia will secure the liberation of its historical lands by military means. Efforts to establish and expand a security buffer zone will continue on a systematic basis.
Read in full
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🎙 Statement and answers to media questions by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov during a joint press conference with Foreign Minister of Iran Abbas Araghchi (Moscow, December 17, 2025)
Read in full
💬 Sergey Lavrov: Today, together with Foreign Minister of Iran Abbas Araghchi, we held substantive, detailed and trust-based talks. They took place, as always, in a friendly and constructive atmosphere.
We noted the steady and substantive development of Russia-Iran relations. Over recent years, they have been significantly strengthened. In 2025, the Treaty on a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Russia and Iran was signed and entered into force.
As we discussed today, the tasks set by our Presidents at their recent meeting in Ashgabat last week, my colleague and I expressed confidence that the implementation of this intergovernmental document would give an additional and powerful momentum to advancing bilateral cooperation and would contribute to strengthening coordination of our approaches in the international arena.
We share a common view on the need to promote the intensification of business ties. In this regard, the entry into force this year of the Free Trade Agreement between the EAEU and Iran, as well as Tehran’s acquisition of observer status with the Union in December 2024, is of great importance. We are interested in further expanding the treaty and legal framework between our countries in order to remove trade barriers.
We underscored the importance of continuing the implementation of flagship infrastructure projects, including the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant. With the support of Russian personnel, it continues to operate normally and did not suspend operations even at the height of the June aggression by Israel and the US against Iran.
We examined in detail the progress in implementing the project to construct the Rasht-Astara railway section using a Russian state loan. The construction of this line is under the priority oversight of our Presidents and is a key prerequisite for the full launch of the western branch of the strategically important International North-South Transport Corridor.
☝️ We condemned the practice of applying unilateral coercive measures that undermine the norms of international law. This is particularly evident today in the context of the Ukrainian crisis.
Europe is attempting to undermine the constructive intentions of the US Administration, including by violating all conceivable norms and principles that until recently governed international economic and financial relations, encroaching on property that the West had only recently declared inviolable, and engaging in many other actions that erode those very principles promoted by Europeans themselves, including within the framework of globalization.
👉 Instead of globalization, we are now witnessing fragmentation.
#RussiaIran
From the Q&A session:
• US actions in the Caribbean are met with rejection by virtually all countries, with the exception of European states. The latter have gone quiet, refraining from any critical remarks towards Washington and subordinating all their thinking to a single goal – persuading the Trump Administration to follow the European path on the Ukrainian issue so as not to halt the war unleashed by the West against Russia.
• We are deeply concerned about the actions of the US Navy and, more broadly, the belligerent statements of the Pentagon, which has declared that, in addition to its unlawful actions of sinking civilian vessels “without trial or investigation” in the Caribbean Sea, it is also planning a ground operation.
• All of this undermines hopes that agreements can be reached within the current balance of forces on the international stage.
Read in full
💬 Sergey Lavrov: Today, together with Foreign Minister of Iran Abbas Araghchi, we held substantive, detailed and trust-based talks. They took place, as always, in a friendly and constructive atmosphere.
We noted the steady and substantive development of Russia-Iran relations. Over recent years, they have been significantly strengthened. In 2025, the Treaty on a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Russia and Iran was signed and entered into force.
As we discussed today, the tasks set by our Presidents at their recent meeting in Ashgabat last week, my colleague and I expressed confidence that the implementation of this intergovernmental document would give an additional and powerful momentum to advancing bilateral cooperation and would contribute to strengthening coordination of our approaches in the international arena.
We share a common view on the need to promote the intensification of business ties. In this regard, the entry into force this year of the Free Trade Agreement between the EAEU and Iran, as well as Tehran’s acquisition of observer status with the Union in December 2024, is of great importance. We are interested in further expanding the treaty and legal framework between our countries in order to remove trade barriers.
We underscored the importance of continuing the implementation of flagship infrastructure projects, including the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant. With the support of Russian personnel, it continues to operate normally and did not suspend operations even at the height of the June aggression by Israel and the US against Iran.
We examined in detail the progress in implementing the project to construct the Rasht-Astara railway section using a Russian state loan. The construction of this line is under the priority oversight of our Presidents and is a key prerequisite for the full launch of the western branch of the strategically important International North-South Transport Corridor.
☝️ We condemned the practice of applying unilateral coercive measures that undermine the norms of international law. This is particularly evident today in the context of the Ukrainian crisis.
Europe is attempting to undermine the constructive intentions of the US Administration, including by violating all conceivable norms and principles that until recently governed international economic and financial relations, encroaching on property that the West had only recently declared inviolable, and engaging in many other actions that erode those very principles promoted by Europeans themselves, including within the framework of globalization.
👉 Instead of globalization, we are now witnessing fragmentation.
#RussiaIran
From the Q&A session:
• US actions in the Caribbean are met with rejection by virtually all countries, with the exception of European states. The latter have gone quiet, refraining from any critical remarks towards Washington and subordinating all their thinking to a single goal – persuading the Trump Administration to follow the European path on the Ukrainian issue so as not to halt the war unleashed by the West against Russia.
• We are deeply concerned about the actions of the US Navy and, more broadly, the belligerent statements of the Pentagon, which has declared that, in addition to its unlawful actions of sinking civilian vessels “without trial or investigation” in the Caribbean Sea, it is also planning a ground operation.
• All of this undermines hopes that agreements can be reached within the current balance of forces on the international stage.
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🇷🇺🇮🇷 On December 17, Foreign Minister of Iran Abbas Araghchi paid a working visit to Moscow and held talks with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
👉 Statement and answers to media questions by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov
The Foreign Ministers held detailed discussions on a wide range of Russia-Iran relations, which have reached a qualitatively new level following the entry into force of the Treaty on a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
The intensive and productive nature of political dialogue at the highest and high levels, as well as interaction between governments, ministries, agencies and regions, was noted.
Special attention was given to the further expansion of trade, economic and investment cooperation, including the implementation of flagship joint projects in the energy and transport sectors.
The Sides held substantive discussions on the implementation of agreements reached following the meeting of the Presidents of Russia and Iran in Ashgabat on December 12, 2025, as well as preparations for the 19th meeting of the Permanent Russian-Iranian Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation, scheduled to take place in Tehran in February 2026.
Sergey Lavrov and Abbas Araghchi exchanged views on current international and regional issues, including the situation regarding the Iranian nuclear programme, developments in the Middle East, the South Caucasus, the Caspian region and Afghanistan. They welcomed the strengthening of coordination at leading multilateral platforms, primarily the #SCO, #BRICS and the #EAEU.
🤝 The talks were held in the traditionally trust-based and constructive atmosphere inherent in Russia-Iran relations.
#RussiaIran
👉 Statement and answers to media questions by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov
The Foreign Ministers held detailed discussions on a wide range of Russia-Iran relations, which have reached a qualitatively new level following the entry into force of the Treaty on a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
The intensive and productive nature of political dialogue at the highest and high levels, as well as interaction between governments, ministries, agencies and regions, was noted.
Special attention was given to the further expansion of trade, economic and investment cooperation, including the implementation of flagship joint projects in the energy and transport sectors.
The Sides held substantive discussions on the implementation of agreements reached following the meeting of the Presidents of Russia and Iran in Ashgabat on December 12, 2025, as well as preparations for the 19th meeting of the Permanent Russian-Iranian Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation, scheduled to take place in Tehran in February 2026.
Sergey Lavrov and Abbas Araghchi exchanged views on current international and regional issues, including the situation regarding the Iranian nuclear programme, developments in the Middle East, the South Caucasus, the Caspian region and Afghanistan. They welcomed the strengthening of coordination at leading multilateral platforms, primarily the #SCO, #BRICS and the #EAEU.
🤝 The talks were held in the traditionally trust-based and constructive atmosphere inherent in Russia-Iran relations.
#RussiaIran
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
📰 Article by Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov for African media dedicated to the Second Ministerial Conference of the Russia–Africa Partnership Forum (December 18, 2025)
"Russia–Africa: New Horizons for Old Friends"
✍️ Cairo will soon host [December 19-20] an important political event: heads and officials of the foreign ministries of Russia and the African countries will gather in the hospitable capital of Egypt to assess the state of Russian–African relations and set out the ways of their development.
For the first time, the ministerial conference of the Russia–Africa Partnership Forum, which is the official name of our meeting, will take place on the African continent. We are glad that a year ago, during the first such conference in the Russian city of Sochi, our partners responded to the proposal to host the Ministerial Conference in 2025.
The work of the Forum is crucial for promoting the full range of Russian–African relations; it organically complements and enriches Russia's relations with the African countries which are developing dynamically on a bilateral basis as well.
African friends remember, and we appreciate it, that our country, it was the Soviet Union back then, supported their desire to break free from the shackles of colonial dependence.
We are proud that our predecessors provided this assistance selflessly and with dedication.
It was the Soviet Union that played the key role in the adoption of the UN Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples exactly 65 years ago. After that Moscow has consistently contributed to the formation of young African States, their national economies, and the establishment of education and healthcare systems. <...>
🌍 Russia appreciates that Africa's reawakening. In the middle of last century, the struggle culminated in decolonization, and now the African people are fighting for making all areas of their life sovereign. We fully support this fight.
It is symbolic that at the UN & other international platforms Russia has been actively calling for enhanced efforts to eradicate modern practices of neo-colonialism.<...>
It is important for us that Africa seeks to speak with a common voice in the international arena.
Russian diplomacy will contribute to the development of the African continent as an influential centre of a multipolar world. This priority is enshrined in the Concept of the Foreign Policy of the Russian Federation. We believe that it is the inalienable right of African countries to independently determine the ways and models of their development and to choose international partners.
💬 As Russia's President Vladimir Putin said:
Russia and Africa are natural allies in the process of democratization of international relations on the principles of the UN Charter in their integrity, entirety and interconnection. <...>
As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, Russia pays special attention to the maintenance of peace and security in Africa as a necessary condition for its social and economic progress. In the spirit of the "African solutions to African problems" concept, we are contributing to the settlement of regional conflicts and enhanced potential of the States of the continent to combat terrorism. <...>
Africa's importance to Russia is marked by the expansion of our diplomatic presence on the continent. Embassies in Niger, Sierra Leone and South Sudan have been opened this year. Next are new diplomatic missions in Gambia, Liberia, Togo and the Comoros. <...>
🤝 Russia is a long-standing and trusted friend of Africa. The values of collectivism, solidarity, and mutual assistance are at the core of the Russian cultural code, which is generally in line with the African philosophy of Ubuntu – "I exist because we exist".
Read the article in full
#RussiaAfrica
"Russia–Africa: New Horizons for Old Friends"
✍️ Cairo will soon host [December 19-20] an important political event: heads and officials of the foreign ministries of Russia and the African countries will gather in the hospitable capital of Egypt to assess the state of Russian–African relations and set out the ways of their development.
For the first time, the ministerial conference of the Russia–Africa Partnership Forum, which is the official name of our meeting, will take place on the African continent. We are glad that a year ago, during the first such conference in the Russian city of Sochi, our partners responded to the proposal to host the Ministerial Conference in 2025.
The work of the Forum is crucial for promoting the full range of Russian–African relations; it organically complements and enriches Russia's relations with the African countries which are developing dynamically on a bilateral basis as well.
African friends remember, and we appreciate it, that our country, it was the Soviet Union back then, supported their desire to break free from the shackles of colonial dependence.
We are proud that our predecessors provided this assistance selflessly and with dedication.
It was the Soviet Union that played the key role in the adoption of the UN Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples exactly 65 years ago. After that Moscow has consistently contributed to the formation of young African States, their national economies, and the establishment of education and healthcare systems. <...>
🌍 Russia appreciates that Africa's reawakening. In the middle of last century, the struggle culminated in decolonization, and now the African people are fighting for making all areas of their life sovereign. We fully support this fight.
It is symbolic that at the UN & other international platforms Russia has been actively calling for enhanced efforts to eradicate modern practices of neo-colonialism.<...>
It is important for us that Africa seeks to speak with a common voice in the international arena.
Russian diplomacy will contribute to the development of the African continent as an influential centre of a multipolar world. This priority is enshrined in the Concept of the Foreign Policy of the Russian Federation. We believe that it is the inalienable right of African countries to independently determine the ways and models of their development and to choose international partners.
💬 As Russia's President Vladimir Putin said:
We have virtually no disagreements with any African countries and the level of trust and mutual affinity is high, mainly because our relations with Africa have never been tarnished. We have never been involved in the exploitation of African peoples.
Russia and Africa are natural allies in the process of democratization of international relations on the principles of the UN Charter in their integrity, entirety and interconnection. <...>
As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, Russia pays special attention to the maintenance of peace and security in Africa as a necessary condition for its social and economic progress. In the spirit of the "African solutions to African problems" concept, we are contributing to the settlement of regional conflicts and enhanced potential of the States of the continent to combat terrorism. <...>
Africa's importance to Russia is marked by the expansion of our diplomatic presence on the continent. Embassies in Niger, Sierra Leone and South Sudan have been opened this year. Next are new diplomatic missions in Gambia, Liberia, Togo and the Comoros. <...>
🤝 Russia is a long-standing and trusted friend of Africa. The values of collectivism, solidarity, and mutual assistance are at the core of the Russian cultural code, which is generally in line with the African philosophy of Ubuntu – "I exist because we exist".
Read the article in full
#RussiaAfrica