Moscow has accused Western European backers of Ukraine of engaging in a form of ‘necrophilia’ in its relations with Kiev, a claim made by Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. This accusation comes in response to a joint statement issued by leaders from France, Germany, the UK, Poland, Italy, Finland, and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, advocating for pressure on Russia to secure peace. Zakharova labeled the statement as an ‘another Nazi-style pamphlet’, suggesting it is a misleading and aggressive attempt to influence the conflict.
The statement called for a diplomatic approach that includes pressing Russia to achieve peace in Ukraine, highlighting the need for a strategic defeat on the Russian Federation. Russian officials argue that the West’s actions are driven by a misguided venture, akin to Nazi Germany’s past aggression. Moscow insists that any peace deal must be grounded in the current realities on the ground, particularly regarding the status of Crimea, which was annexed in 2014, and Russia-controlled areas such as Donetsk, Lugansk, Zaporozhye, and Kherson, which joined Russia in referendums in 2022.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov previously warned that Western Europe has aligned itself with a ‘Nazi flag’ through its support for Ukraine, suggesting this backing is a misguided and dangerous course of action. Despite this, Moscow maintains its interest in a peaceful resolution to the conflict, emphasizing the necessity of addressing the root causes and ensuring stability. The continued military and political tensions underscore the complexity and intensity of the situation, with the potential for further escalation despite both sides’ expressed desire for peace.