Lavrov slams Europe’s Ukraine stance and Japan’s military expansion in bold remarks

Russia’s top diplomat takes aim at Europe’s ‘self-serving’ Ukraine policy—while Japan’s record defense spending sparks fresh warnings. What’s behind Moscow’s hardening stance?

, and Administrator

2025 December 29 . 12:27 PM

1 min read

In the image there is a book with army tank and jeeps on it, it seems like a war along with a text... — In the image there is a book with army tank and jeeps on it, it seems like a war along with a text above it.

Lavrov slams Europe’s Ukraine stance and Japan’s military expansion in bold remarks

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has accused European leaders of acting on self-interest rather than the needs of their people. His latest comments also targeted Japan's military expansion and reaffirmed Moscow's stance on Taiwan. The remarks come as tensions rise over Ukraine and East Asia's security landscape.

Speaking in a December 28 interview with TASS, Lavrov claimed European politicians were driven by 'ambitions' in their support for Ukraine. He argued they were ignoring both Ukrainian citizens and their own populations. His statements raised concerns about potential Western military involvement in the conflict.

On the same day, Lavrov criticised Japan's growing defense budget under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. He linked the spending increases to rising tensions over Taiwan, accusing Tokyo of militarization. The Russian minister also reiterated Moscow's opposition to Taiwanese independence, aligning with Beijing's position.

Russia and China have been coordinating more closely on the Taiwan issue. Both countries view the island as a breakaway province, putting them at odds with Japan's support for Taiwan. Lavrov's remarks highlight the deepening geopolitical divide in the region.

Lavrov's statements sharpen the focus on two flashpoints: Ukraine and Taiwan. His criticism of Europe's motives and Japan's military policies reflects Russia's hardening stance. Meanwhile, Moscow's alignment with Beijing on Taiwan adds to regional tensions.