Foreign Minister Lavrov Discusses U.S.-Russia Position within the P5+1 Talks (Excerpts)

September 25, 2006

Related Country: 

  • United States

[Unofficial Translation]

. . .

We are convinced that there is no alternative to the political and diplomatic resolution of crises, especially in the Middle and Near East. Like in diplomacy in general, there is no reasonable alternative to compromise. Of course, any compromise should be within the legal framework without undermining international security, and be consistent with the obligations under international agreements, including the non-proliferation regimes. Nobody wants to see Iran possessing a nuclear bomb, but, at the same time, it is extremely dangerous to get involved in futile confrontation. I want to stress this point: we shall not support ultimatums that would lead to a dead-end, create a new crisis in the already seriously destabilized region, and undermine the authority of the UN Security Council, should this body with its crucial role in maintaining international security decide to pursue an unrealistic policy. It is engagement, rather than isolation of "problem" states, that would lead to a resolution.

. . .