Russia’s Diplomatic Position on Ukraine and Regional Conflicts

Dmitry Polyanskiy, Russia’s UN representative, criticized the Biden administration’s approach to the Ukraine conflict during an interview, claiming it exacerbated tensions. He praised previous U.S. policies under Trump. Polyanskiy welcomed Saudi Arabia’s role in diplomacy and discussed Russia’s support for the Palestinian cause, Sudanese authorities, and peace efforts in Syria, emphasizing a collaborative future.

Dmitry Polyanskiy, the first deputy permanent representative of the Russian Federation to the UN, conveyed Russia’s perspective on the Biden administration’s role in the Ukraine conflict during an interview on the Arab News program “Frankly Speaking.” He asserted that instead of fostering resolutions, the former U.S. administration exacerbated the crisis, noting that it contributed to the situation being perceived as anti-Russia rather than pro-Ukraine. This viewpoint highlights a critical stance on U.S. foreign policy impacts on global conflicts.

Polyanskiy criticized the U.S. for its invitation of confrontation with Russia, which he claims led to the escalation resulting in Moscow’s military actions beginning in February 2022. He insisted that actions taken by the Biden administration only served to fuel the war and asserted that this approach has not shifted substantially. Contrastingly, he praised the previous U.S. administration under President Trump, suggesting it had a more realistic understanding of the battlefield dynamics in Ukraine.

Recent talks in Riyadh between the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine opened discussions on potential ceasefires, illuminating Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning role as a diplomatic mediator. Polyanskiy welcomed Saudi Arabia’s involvement, emphasizing the necessity of new diplomatic hubs in a changing global landscape. He noted that previous centers like Geneva might have lost their neutrality, thus appreciating Saudi Arabia’s proactive diplomacy efforts.

In discussing broader regional issues, Polyanskiy remarked on Russia’s support for the Palestinian cause while acknowledging that Russia does not possess the same influence over Israel compared to the United States. He stressed that significant progress in resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict depends on the collective action of Arab states advocating for their interests while reiterating the importance of a two-state solution as foundational to achieving lasting peace.

Transitioning to the Sudanese conflict, Polyanskiy affirmed Russia’s backing of the Sudanese government and criticized the international community’s portrayal of the situation, which he felt unjustly equated the Sudanese authorities with the opposition. He maintained that while humanitarian issues need addressing, the crisis should not be politicized against the Sudanese government.

Regarding the situation in Syria, Polyanskiy discussed the complexities following the ousting of Bashar Assad and Russia’s continued commitment to fostering peace and supporting the Syrian people. He expressed hope for a transitional government that is inclusive and focused on combating terrorism, indicating Russia’s long-standing friendly relations with Syria. Polyanskiy reiterated that Russia seeks to aid Syria in its transitional period, underlining a dedication to cooperative ties that extend beyond recent upheavals.

In summary, Dmitry Polyanskiy articulated Russia’s critical stance on U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding the Ukraine conflict, while also affirming Saudi Arabia’s emerging role in global diplomacy. He underscored the necessity for collective Arab action regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and expressed Russia’s support for Sudanese leadership amidst ongoing crises. Polyanskiy further emphasized Russia’s commitment to fostering peace in Syria, aiming for an inclusive and cooperative future amidst transitional challenges.

Original Source: www.arabnews.jp