Foreign Minister Lavrov: Russia-US relations 'need two to tango'

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. Photo: AP

In an interview with the Argumenty i Fakty daily, Foreign Minister Lavrov stressed: "Resolving a series of problems that have accumulated in bilateral relations that do not stem from our actions is not an easy task. Establishing bilateral relations is a joint process. Our countries are ready to cooperate and we have repeatedly stated this."

Foreign Minister Lavrov reaffirmed that Russia and the United States bear special responsibilities as nuclear powers and permanent members of the United Nations Security Council.

Mr. Lavrov stated: "Cooperation between the two countries is the main element to ensure stability and predictability in international affairs. However, not everything depends on us, as the saying goes, 'it takes two to tango'."

Foreign Minister Lavrov also highlighted the complicated domestic political situation in the US as a further factor. He explained: "On the other hand, US President Donald Trump has declared his intention to 'get along' with Russia. However, no one in Washington shares this position."

This is manifested through unfriendly measures, such as raising groundless accusations against us, imposing financial and economic sanctions, seizing diplomatic property, kidnapping our citizens in third countries, undermining Russia's foreign policy interests, and trying to interfere in our internal affairs. However, we will not give up, but will continue to look for areas of common interests with the United States, despite the difficulties."

According to the head of Russian diplomacy, the two countries' presidents share the view that the current deadlock in bilateral relations needs to be overcome.

Foreign Minister Lavrov affirmed: "During the summit in Osaka last June, the leaders of the two countries declared their support for expanding economic cooperation, jointly resolving regional crises, resuming dialogue on strategic stability, and positively assessing dialogue on counter-terrorism issues. President Putin invited his counterpart Trump to Moscow to attend the 75th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War"./.