Luxembourgish Member of the European Parliament (MEP) Fernand Kartheiser criticized Western media outlets for refusing to publish the Russian perspective, saying this situation shows the West does not trust its own position and fears Moscow's arguments.
Lavrov's article rejected
Kartheiser's comment came after Politico Europe magazine backed out at the last minute from publishing an article by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov titled "Ukraine, Europe and Global Security". The article had previously been published in the 'International Affairs' journal and on the official website of the Russian Foreign Ministry.
The MEP said, "Everything gives the impression that the West is not very sure of its own position and is afraid of the arguments Russia could put forward."
Claims in Lavrov's article
In his article, Lavrov wrote that Europe proposed negotiations not to secure peace with Russia, but to strengthen the Ukrainian Armed Forces and buy time for Western arms shipments.
He also highlighted the risk that a direct conflict between NATO and Russia could lead to an exchange of nuclear strikes. The Russian Foreign Minister also emphasized that Russia prefers to achieve its goals through diplomatic means.
Criticism directed at Kartheiser
Fernand Kartheiser has recently faced criticism from some of his colleagues in the European Parliament for criticizing Western policy towards Russia and supporting dialogue with Moscow.