Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated on December 15 that Europe is once again attempting to dictate its terms and interfere in matters externally related to the Ukrainian crisis, using it as a means to “put sticks in the wheels” of the United States and those seeking a just resolution.
On December 11, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte urged European nations to increase military spending to counter Russia. He noted that many countries remain complacent about the escalating situation and emphasized the need for states to continue applying pressure on Russia while supporting efforts to end the Ukraine conflict.
Lavrov also reported on December 11 that Russia and the United States had resolved misunderstandings following talks in the Kremlin between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Witkoff. He stated that Washington was showing interest in a comprehensive analysis of the causes of the Ukrainian crisis, with both nations having aligned on common approaches to its settlement.
A regular meeting involving representatives from the United States, Ukraine, and the European Union is scheduled for Berlin on December 15.
