LIVE from Russia: fmr CIA Analyst Larry Johnson

<p>The presentation recounts a discussion with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, focusing on historical grievances, diplomacy, and ongoing tensions between Russia, Ukraine, and the West. Key points include:</p><ol><li><strong>Lavrov’s Persona</strong> – He is described as a professional and unassuming diplomat with a good sense of humor, contrasting with more self-important Western figures.</li><li><strong>Historical Context &amp; Trust Issues</strong> – Lavrov emphasized that Russia takes historical agreements seriously and views the West’s actions over the past 34 years as a series of betrayals, from NATO expansion to the Minsk agreements and the failed 2022 Istanbul peace talks.</li><li><strong>Russia’s Position on Peace Talks</strong> – Lavrov reiterated President Putin’s conditions for negotiations, which include Ukraine stopping military actions in Russian-claimed territories, renouncing NATO ambitions, holding new elections, and recognizing Russia’s territorial claims.</li><li><strong>Skepticism Toward Western Diplomacy</strong> – The Russians remain wary of Western promises and are cautiously optimistic about potential discussions with Trump, though they do not fully trust his public statements.</li><li><strong>Ukraine Conflict &amp; NATO Presence</strong> – Lavrov firmly rejected NATO peacekeepers in Ukraine under any flag, warning that any such deployment would be unacceptable.</li><li><strong>Perceptions of U.S. Politics</strong> – Russian officials view American diplomacy as inconsistent and chaotic, pointing to figures like Lindsey Graham, who frequently change positions on Ukraine.</li><li><strong>Future Outlook</strong> – Unless Ukraine meets Russia’s conditions, Lavrov suggests that Russia will continue its military actions, believing Ukraine is incapable of stopping them.</li></ol><p>The overarching message is that Russia feels justified in its position, distrusts the West, and remains resolute in its demands while being open to negotiations under strict terms.</p><p>See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.</p>