We Want to Understand What Washington Thinks About Our Relations - Lavrov

Russia and the United States could return to arms control negotiations if the U.S. adopts an approach of equality and mutual respect in dialogue, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated in an interview with CBS.

“It is the United States that has exited the process of strengthening strategic stability, and if the U.S. wishes to return to this path, the Russian Federation will consider the conditions under which this might be possible. Since the U.S. doctrinal documents refer to us as 'adversaries,' and some time ago American officials called us 'enemies,' we want to understand what Washington thinks about our relations and whether it is ready for equal, mutually respectful dialogue aimed at seeking a balance of interests. If this is the approach, then everything is possible,” he said.

It is noteworthy that earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that Russia is halting its participation in the strategic offensive arms reduction treaty with the United States, while emphasizing that the country is not withdrawing from the treaty.