(MENAFN) Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has made it clear that Moscow will never participate in coalitions that target third-party nations.

His remarks came during an interview with a newspaper, where he addressed the possibility of Russia collaborating with the United States to pressure China into joining nuclear disarmament discussions.

Lavrov firmly stated that "Russia will not ally with anyone against anyone, especially against China. It is unthinkable."

In late September, Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed to then-U.S. President Donald Trump that the two nations extend the New START treaty — the last active nuclear arms control agreement between them — by another year.

This treaty is currently set to expire on February 5, 2026. Trump responded by calling the suggestion “a good idea,” but no significant actions followed from the White House.

Throughout his term, Trump had persistently pushed for China to be included in arms reduction negotiations that were primarily between the United States and Russia.

However, Lavrov emphasized that Moscow and Beijing have established a series of agreements that define their bilateral partnership.

These accords are focused on mutual support, enhancing each other’s economic growth, defense systems, and diplomatic standing on the global stage.

Lavrov's remarks underscore Russia’s commitment to maintaining independent and balanced relations, particularly with key partners such as China, rather than forming blocs that could provoke tensions or rivalry.

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