Title: EU’s Top Diplomat Refuses Meeting with Russian Foreign Minister in North Macedonia
In a surprising turn of events, Josep Borrell, the top diplomat of the European Union (EU), declined to meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov during his visit to Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia. Borrell claimed his “busy agenda” prevented the meeting, but many interpret it as a deliberate snub.
Lavrov’s visit to North Macedonia was linked to attending a meeting of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). Fortunately, EU visa-bans do not apply to multilateral events, allowing Lavrov to travel freely despite the strained relationship between the EU and Russia.
However, complications arose as Bulgaria had to grant Lavrov’s plane special permission to cross its airspace. North Macedonia, aligning with EU sanctions, also raises questions about the possible need for Lavrov to rethink the composition of his delegation due to these restrictions.
Adding to the tense atmosphere, Ukraine, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania decided to boycott the meeting in Skopje, expressing concerns over providing Russia with potential propaganda opportunities. Recognizing the significance of countering Russia’s views, Borrell attended the meeting to prevent the EU seat from being empty.
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also confirmed his attendance but did not schedule a meeting with Lavrov. Lavrov claimed that several Western ministers contacted him for bilateral talks, although he did not provide any specific names.
Western leaders continue to stand firm in their arming and support for Ukraine. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized their unwavering commitment, highlighting Russia’s recent announcement of a significant increase in defense spending for 2024.
Notably, Finland closed its border with Russia due to irregular migrant activity, further exacerbating tensions between the two countries. Stoltenberg claimed that Russia was using migration as a pressure tactic on NATO allies.
Lavrov may attempt to draw similarities between the situation in Ukraine and recent events in Gaza. However, Stoltenberg emphasized the differences, stressing that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine was unprovoked aggression.
As the diplomatic landscape continues to evolve, it remains clear that the EU and Russia are struggling to find common ground. The snub by Borrell and the absence of bilateral meetings underscore the growing divide between these global powers. World News Live will closely follow any new developments that may have far-reaching consequences for international relations.
“Zombie enthusiast. Subtly charming travel practitioner. Webaholic. Internet expert.”