High-Stakes Diplomacy: Lavrov's EU Return Amidst Ukraine Tensions
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov attended a meeting in Malta, marking his first visit to an EU nation since the Ukraine invasion. The gathering, featuring US Secretary Antony Blinken, placed Ukraine at its core. Malta revoked visas for Russian officials, underscoring EU sanctions post-invasion.
- Country:
- Malta
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov made a significant appearance in Malta for the annual Organisation for Security and Cooperation meeting, marking his first visit to a European Union country since Russia's aggressive actions in Ukraine began nearly three years ago. This meeting has elevated Ukraine to the top of the agenda, with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha also present.
Malta's Foreign Minister Ian Borg highlighted the ongoing threat posed by Russia's actions to European security. The visit represents a rare occasion for Lavrov to engage in forums with senior Western officials, having recently attended events like the United Nations General Assembly and the G20 summit in Brazil. In a stark reminder of ongoing diplomatic tensions, Maria Zakharova, Russia's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, disclosed that Malta annulled her visa, citing objections from three OSCE member countries due to her travel ban status.
The situation underscores the EU's continued sanctions on Russia, following Lavrov's attendance in Skopje, North Macedonia, the previous year, while Poland denied him a visa post-invasion. Meanwhile, in a symbolic move, Reporters Without Borders demanded the release of 38 journalists detained by Russia, highlighting the country's notorious reputation as the fifth-largest jailer of journalists globally.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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