"Lavrov Accuses Macron of Echoing Napoleon and Hitler's Rhetoric on Russia"_ISHEJA

At a press conference, Lavrov stated, “Unlike his predecessors, Napoleon and Hitler, who openly declared their intentions to defeat and conquer Russia, Mr. Macron’s approach lacks diplomacy.” He pointed out that while those historical figures were clear in their goals, Macron’s statements seem to suggest the same intent but framed in a way that Russia is a threat to both France and Europe.

Lavrov took issue with accusations that Russia is preparing for war against Europe, labeling such claims as absurd. “President Putin has repeatedly rejected these ideas as nonsense,” he remarked. He emphasized that Russia does not seek conflict but rather aims to address the underlying causes of the situation in Ukraine, which, according to Lavrov, stem from Western influence and NATO’s expansion.

He specifically called out NATO’s growth, with reference to former U.S. President Donald Trump acknowledging it as a major issue. Lavrov criticized European leaders for downplaying the role of NATO in escalating tensions and for not addressing issues such as the suppression of the Russian language and the banning of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Ukraine.

Lavrov also pointed out that while human rights should be a priority in the West, there has been little discussion of these issues in relation to Ukraine. He accused European leaders of remaining silent in the face of such violations, despite their supposed commitment to human rights.

In his remarks on Macron’s nuclear statements, Lavrov suggested that Macron was continuing the legacy of Napoleon, using aggressive rhetoric towards Russia. He referred to Macron’s comments about nuclear deterrence and the protection of Europe, calling it a veiled attempt to criticize Russian leadership while engaging in indirect dialogue with U.S. President Trump.

Earlier, Macron had announced plans to discuss with allies the possibility of offering European countries protection under France’s nuclear deterrent forces. He also cited growing threats to Europe, allegedly stemming from Russia.