Lavrov addresses Russia-China ties, US, NATO

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov delivered a wide-ranging address at the Antalya Diplomatic Forum, outlining Moscow's positions on key geopolitical issues. He stated there is a 'conversation brewing' with the United States about the future of bilateral economic relations. Lavrov asserted that NATO is 'not in the best shape' and accused the West of trying to make Ukraine a 'trigger for a global threat'. He also claimed relations between Russia and China are 'higher, deeper, and more reliable than a classic military alliance' and alleged US operations in Iran aim to control oil through the Strait of Hormuz.