Lavrov disinforms: France wanted to have a dialogue with Moscow about Ukraine, but without Kiev’s participation

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov disinformed that France had tried to start a “dialog” with Moscow about Ukraine, but without Kiev’s participation. However, this claim was rejected by Paris.

What did Lavrov say?

“To avoid any irresponsibility, I will refrain from going into details.” We have received several messages from our French colleagues via confidential channels offering to help start a dialog on the Ukraine issue without involving Ukraine itself. This approach contradicts the principle repeatedly emphasized by the West: “Not a word about Ukraine without Ukraine.” We are open to communication – we are ready to listen.”

Analysis:

The Russian Foreign Minister spread disinformation that France had held such talks. France immediately denied such a statement. A French diplomatic source told AFP: “The Russian authorities are used to making outrageous comments aimed at exploiting a war of aggression for which they bear full responsibility.” “As France has repeatedly emphasized since the beginning of the war, it is up to Ukraine, the country under attack, to determine the time and conditions under which it wishes to enter into a negotiation process.”

The Western countries consistently called for a common front to support Ukraine and repeatedly emphasized that no decision could be made without Ukraine’s consent.

Lavrov also did not disclose when these calls took place and gave no further details about the alleged contact.

/The Geopost