Russia Warns Of ‘Decisive Response’ To Missile Threats From US, NATO: Sergei Lavrov

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov issued a stern warning on Sunday. He stated that the United States and NATO would face a ‘decisive response’, including military-technical countermeasures if they establish new missile threats against Russia.

Speaking to RIA Novosti, Lavrov declared, “We are ready for any scenario. If new missile threats arise, our adversaries will face a decisive response. However, we remain open to considering steps toward creating acceptable conditions for equitable dialogue.”

Sergei Lavrov Issues Stern Warning

Lavrov emphasized Russia’s preference for a comprehensive strategy to address the root causes of security disagreements and reduce the potential for conflict.

He criticized NATO’s continuous eastward expansion, describing it as a primary factor fueling the Ukrainian crisis and posing an ongoing threat to Russia’s security.

While Lavrov acknowledged the possibility of discussing arms control, he insisted such discussions must be part of a broader agenda.

Highlighting the military aspect, Lavrov revealed that Russia might abandon its unilateral moratorium on deploying ground-based intermediate- and shorter-range missiles. He argued the moratorium has become increasingly untenable despite being officially in effect.

As proof of Russia’s readiness, Lavrov pointed to the successful testing of the medium-range hypersonic system, Oreshnik, under combat conditions. “This test convincingly demonstrated our capabilities and our resolve to implement compensatory measures,” he stated.

In addition, Lavrov expressed Russia’s willingness to engage in negotiations to resolve the Ukraine conflict. However, he stressed that any talks must address the crisis’s root causes and reflect the realities on the ground.

“We are open to negotiations, but they must tackle the core issues of the Ukrainian crisis and consider the actual situation,” he remarked.

Lavrov Outlines Key Demands For Ukraine

Lavrov outlined key demands for Ukraine, including adopting a non-aligned, neutral, and non-nuclear status to mitigate long-term threats to Russia’s security. He also insisted that Kyiv must commit to safeguarding the rights and interests of Russian-speaking citizens.

Meanwhile, Ukraine’s Head of the Presidential Office, Andriy Yermak, recently stated that Ukraine is not ready to enter negotiations with Russia.

Speaking to Suspilne on December 12, Yermak cited the lack of sufficient Western support, which prevents Ukraine from negotiating from a position of strength, according to local media reports from the Kyiv Independent.

Lavrov’s statements underscore the ongoing tensions between Russia and the West, as both sides grapple with critical security concerns and the future of the Ukrainian conflict.

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