NBC’s “Meet the Press” host Kristen Welker challenged Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the matter of whether Russia acknowledged its invasion of Ukraine. “Has Russia invaded Ukraine, Foreign Minister?” she pressed.
Welker also inquired about Lavrov’s views on Ukraine’s existence and insisted that he acknowledge the invasion. In response, Lavrov described the military actions as a “special military operation” aimed at protecting individuals whom he claimed Ukrainian leaders did not regard as human. He suggested that if journalists were making serious claims, they might want to consider Ukraine’s historical context, particularly post-2014 coup.
Welker reiterated the question, asking if Lavrov would admit to the invasion. Lavrov maintained, “We stated we commenced a special military operation,” designed to protect those he described as targeted by terrorists.
When she asked if Russian President Vladimir Putin desired peace, Lavrov affirmed that he did. Welker further probed Lavrov on what he would say to American lawmakers who believe Russia aligns with Trump.
Lavrov responded that it wasn’t for lawmakers or the media to dictate motivations but suggested that both national leaders aimed to defend their respective interests. He expressed a desire for peace in Ukraine, claiming that Trump also shared this aim.
In a recent meeting, Trump had discussed plans to move forward with negotiations regarding the conflict, specifically after meeting with Zelensky and other European leaders shortly after his encounter with Putin in Alaska.
Trump hinted at having a clearer idea of the potential for a resolution, suggesting that the next couple of weeks would be crucial for determining U.S. actions. “We’ll see what develops,” he noted, indicating the possibility of significant sanctions or tariffs depending on how the situation unfolds.
