Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has dismissed comments by European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas regarding the withdrawal of Russian troops from Georgia and Moldova and possible restrictions on Russia’s armed forces, calling the remarks “idiotic.”
“Listen, I do not discuss idiotic statements,” Lavrov told Russian media when asked to comment on Kallas’ proposal.
For reference, Kallas recently stated that if negotiations between Russia and Ukraine begin, the European Union intends to raise, among other issues, the withdrawal of Russian troops from Georgia and Moldova.
Speaking in Cyprus, where an informal meeting of foreign ministers is taking place, Kallas said any potential agreement should not only include obligations for Ukraine but also for Russia.
“I put forward this document back in February, where I listed everything I could think of — starting with Russia respecting international agreements under which it committed not to attack its neighbors and to respect their sovereignty. However, there are also other issues that reflect the concessions requested from Ukraine, for example regarding military limitations. If this is reflected in an agreement, certain obligations should also apply to Russia,” Kallas said.
She also referred to broader European security concerns.
“If we think about the presence of Russian troops in countries such as Georgia and Moldova, it is in Europe’s security interest that these troops are not there and do not interfere in elections in different countries,” Kallas added.
Related story: Kaja Kallas: It is in Europe’s security interest that Russian troops are not in Georgia and Moldova
