In a recent appearance on the "60 Minutes" program aired on Russia's state-owned "Russia 1" TV channel, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov addressed growing concerns about nuclear warfare, asserting that such discussions originate primarily from Western nations.
Lavrov emphasized Russia's commitment to nuclear non-proliferation, stating, "We never started a debate about what to do with nuclear weapons and whether they can be used." He highlighted Russia's diplomatic efforts in this area, noting that it was at Russia's initiative that the "Gorbachev-Reagan formula" was reaffirmed in early 2021.
This formula, originally established during the Cold War era, declares that "there can be no winners in a nuclear war, therefore it should never be unleashed." Lavrov pointed out that this reaffirmation occurred first at the level of Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Joe Biden, and subsequently among the five nuclear states that are permanent members of the UN Security Council.
The Foreign Minister contrasted Russia's stance with what he perceives as a more bellicose attitude from Western nations. "All other initiatives in which nuclear war is considered possible, such expressions have been heard exclusively from Western capitals," Lavrov stated.
These comments come amid heightened global tensions and ongoing concerns about the potential for nuclear escalation in various geopolitical hotspots. Lavrov's statements appear aimed at positioning Russia as a responsible nuclear power while deflecting accusations of nuclear saber-rattling onto Western nations.
As international dialogue continues on nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, Lavrov's remarks underscore the complex and often contradictory narratives surrounding nuclear policy and rhetoric on the global stage.
