Foreign Minister Ian Borg rejected anti-Western accusations from Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov at the OSCE conference, stating that the organization would not be intimidated by Russia’s rhetoric.
Lavrov had accused Western nations of pursuing “neo-colonial hegemony” and risking a “hot war” with Russia, but Borg responded firmly, emphasising unity among European allies.
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“We are not surprised by Lavrov’s comments,” Borg said, highlighting that Russia has repeatedly used international platforms to justify its aggression in Ukraine since the invasion began nearly three years ago. He urged European leaders to send a “coherent and strong message” to Moscow while reaffirming their collective stance.
Borg noted no scheduled bilateral talks between Russia and Ukraine and expressed skepticism about any imminent negotiations given Lavrov’s confrontational remarks.
Lavrov held a brief closed-door press conference before departing, and much of the Russian media contingent left soon after.
Reflecting on the OSCE’s role, Borg acknowledged the challenges posed by Lavrov’s criticisms of the organization but stressed the importance of continued diplomacy.
Ian Borg’s stance has earned the support from local Opposition MPs as well, including Adrian Delia and Beppe Galea.
Opposition Expresses Support
As Minister for Foreign Affairs Ian Borg exclaimed Malta’s firm position that calls for an end to the war in Ukraine and the withdrawal of Russian forces, he received the support from local Opposition MPs, including Adrian Delia and Beppe Galea.
Taking to social media, Nationalist MP Adrian Delia expressed his ‘total backing and support’, highlighting how in the presence of Russian Minister Sergey Lavrov, he condemned the systemic threat to security in Europe by Russia.
‘Malta should remain a support line for the Ukrainian people, and continue to oppose the Russian invasion in their country. Our foreign policy should unite us to strengthen us as a nation.’
Borg’s position was also backed by PN Candidate for Gozo Beppe Galea, who said that despite disagreeing politically and on ‘a hundred thousand other things’, ‘if we want serious politics we cannot not recognise when good is done from the opposite camp.’
Galea backed Borg’s stance as well, saying that Malta should be a source of support for Ukrainians and oppose Russia’s invasion effort.
‘I appeal so that this message remains strong and uncompromising.’
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