Russia Extols Trump While Condemning EU Policies as ‘Destructive’
NEW YORK – Russia’s Foreign minister Sergey Lavrov publicly praised former U.S. President Donald Trump’s approach to international relations on tuesday, while concurrently leveling harsh criticism at the policies of several European Union nations, calling them “destructive” and driven by a desire to maintain global dominance. The contrasting statements highlight a continuing effort by Moscow to cultivate relationships with figures perceived as challenging the existing international order, even as tensions remain high over the war in Ukraine.
Lavrov,speaking at a press conference following talks with African Union representatives,lauded Trump’s “honesty” and “pragmatism,” contrasting it with what he described as the “ideological rigidity” of current U.S. leadership and the EU.He specifically criticized sanctions imposed by the EU against Russia, accusing them of harming global stability and hindering efforts to resolve conflicts. “Trump understood the need for a different approach, one based on mutual respect and national interests,” Lavrov stated, according to transcripts released by the Russian Foreign Ministry. “The current EU policies are simply aimed at preserving their hegemony, and thay are doing so in a very destructive way.”
the remarks come amid escalating diplomatic friction between Russia and several EU member states, notably those leading efforts to support Ukraine and impose sanctions on Moscow.Russia has repeatedly accused the West of fueling the conflict in Ukraine by providing military aid and imposing economic restrictions. The EU, in turn, has condemned Russia’s actions in Ukraine as a violation of international law and a threat to European security.
Lavrov’s praise for Trump echoes similar sentiments expressed by Russian officials in the past, particularly during Trump’s presidency when he frequently questioned the value of traditional alliances and expressed skepticism about the EU. Analysts suggest Russia views Trump as a potential ally in its efforts to reshape the global order, believing he is less committed to upholding the post-World War II international system.
The Russian Foreign Minister specifically targeted policies enacted by Germany, France, and the Baltic states, accusing them of prioritizing their own interests over collective security. He claimed these nations were actively working to undermine russia’s influence in its near abroad and were responsible for escalating tensions in Eastern Europe.
the statements are likely to further strain already fraught relations between russia and the EU, and underscore the deep ideological divide that separates the two sides. Experts predict continued efforts by Russia to exploit divisions within the West and cultivate relationships with political figures who share its skepticism of the current international order.
