Russia accuses the US government of always trying to weaken Russia

“As for the goals that all (the US administration) share, they benefit from weakening Russia and its influence, from weakening the Russian world,” Lavrov noted in an interview with journalist Marina Kim, excerpts of which were broadcast on Rossiya-1 television. “The reason is that, in the end, it all comes down to (Washington's desire) to crush Russia as an opponent,” Lavrov added.

He pointed out that the Americans have long been promoting the idea that "no country in the world has more influence than the United States". "That's how it is. However, what is worth noting is their attitude towards the Russian language, which is related to one of the most important human rights". According to him, "none of the Republicans who are supposed to put forward groundbreaking ideas on how to end the Ukrainian conflict mention the need to restore the rights of the Ukrainian people to speak Russian, to study, teach and receive information in Russian". The Russian foreign minister stressed that Moscow has repeatedly explained its position. "None of the Western architects of the so-called settlement of the Ukrainian crisis paid attention to this issue," Lavrov said.

In addition, Mr. Lavrov stressed that Donald Trump's victory in the US presidential election will not change Washington's approach to the Ukraine crisis because the US will not abandon its strategic interests there.