Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has firmly stated that Russia harbors no intentions of attacking NATO or EU member states. However, he warned that any aggression directed towards Moscow would be met with a ‘decisive response.’ Lavrov made these remarks during a comprehensive address at the UN General Assembly on Saturday, where he highlighted the increasing frequency of threats against Russia by Western nations. Lavrov also criticized Israel, condemning the October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas but asserting that there is ‘no justification’ for the ‘brutal killings’ of Palestinians in Gaza or for plans to annex the West Bank. He accused Israel of using its mission to eliminate Hamas as a pretext for air strikes on other Middle Eastern countries, including Qatar. On Iran, Lavrov accused Western powers of undermining diplomatic efforts after a last-minute bid by Russia and China to delay the reimposition of sanctions failed on Friday. Lavrov labeled the move as ‘illegal,’ with the sanctions set to take effect at 00:00 GMT on Sunday. Addressing tensions in Europe, Lavrov reiterated that Russia has never planned to attack NATO or the EU and warned that any aggression against Russia would be met with a robust response. He also commented on the US-Russian relationship, noting a desire in the current US administration to develop pragmatic cooperation without adopting an ideological stance. Lavrov further criticized the West for the delayed recognition of a Palestinian state by some countries, suggesting that they waited until there was ‘no one and nothing left to recognise.’