OSCE Summit in Malta Features Ukraine, Russia Ministers

The OSCE Ministerial Council in Malta has drawn sharp criticism from various foreign ministers towards Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, with many expressing their intention to avoid him entirely. Polish Foreign Affairs Minister Radosław Sikorski stated he would not sit with Lavrov, accusing him of spreading lies regarding Russia's actions in Ukraine. Lavrov's attendance marks his first visit to an EU country since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, a move that has raised tensions among OSCE members. Meanwhile, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha is set to address the plenary session, focusing on Russian aggression and its ramifications. This meeting showcases the deep divisions within the OSCE regarding Russia's involvement, with Ukraine advocating for Russia's suspension from the organization. The stark contrast in receptions between Lavrov and Sybiha highlights the ongoing geopolitical rift stemming from the conflict in Ukraine.