Lavrov accuses West of seeking 'strategic defeat' for Russia at UN

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov accused Western countries of seeking to inflict a “strategic defeat” on Russia, warning that double standards undermine prospects for peace and stability at the international level. He made the remarks during his address to the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Saturday, September 26, 2026, as the 81st session’s general debate continued.

Turning to regional crises, Lavrov affirmed Russia’s readiness to help stabilize the Strait of Hormuz, stressing the importance of resolving the Gulf and strait crisis through confidence-building measures. He also highlighted the need to work toward a settlement in the Middle East.

Addressing the Palestinian issue, the Russian minister said Israeli policies in the West Bank undermine the prospects for peace, noting that the occupying state continues to expand its operations and settlement activity there. He said the time has come to achieve stability by establishing a Palestinian state.

Lavrov also discussed developments in Venezuela, describing the detention of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro as illegal and claiming he is being held in the United States without trial.

On international affairs, Lavrov accused Western nations of undermining the European security system, warning that continued double standards threaten global peace. He also pointed to what he called unprecedented pressure on Cuba.