Rodion Miroshnik, Ambassador-at-Large at the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has stated that Moscow must prepare for long-term military operations against Ukraine and act in accordance with a well-thought-out strategy. In an interview with TASS, he acknowledged that it is unlikely the situation will change in the foreseeable future, and placed the blame for the continuation of the war on Europe.
Briefly about the main points
- Miroshnik urged Russia to prepare for protracted hostilities.
- A spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry did not specify a timeframe for the end of the war.
- He accused Europe of allegedly intending to prolong the war.
- The EU is calling on Russia to implement an immediate and unconditional ceasefire.
- Miroshnik emphasised the need for a well-thought-out strategy for a protracted war.
Miroshnik announced that military operations would be prolonged
Rodion Miroshnik said that Russia should be prepared for «military operations of a sufficiently long duration». He did not say when, in his view, the hostilities might come to an end, nor did he indicate that Moscow was prepared to agree to an unconditional ceasefire.
Europe’s accusations contradict its public stance
A spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry stated that European countries have apparently opted to prolong the war, will provide funding to Ukraine and will attempt to thwart any potential agreements. Russia has launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, has occupied part of its territory and continues to missile and drone strikes.
In June, the European Council called on Russia to agree to a full, unconditional and immediate ceasefire and to substantive negotiations. At the same time, the EU has stated its intention to support Ukraine’s defence capabilities in the long term, in particular through supply of air defence equipment, ammunition, drones and missiles.
Russian state media publicised Miroshnyk’s remarks, transforming a diplomatic statement into a message for a wider domestic audience. This signal can be seen as an attempt to prepare the public for further losses, military expenditure and restrictions, whilst shifting the blame for the aggression onto external opponents.
