Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has urged the United States to stop military strikes in Yemen and focus on diplomacy. During a phone conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Lavrov emphasized the need for all parties to avoid force and seek a political solution to prevent more bloodshed.
“In response to the American stance, Sergei Lavrov stressed the need for an immediate end to the use of force and the importance of political dialogue to prevent further loss of life,” Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated on Sunday.
US Launches Airstrikes on Yemen
The call followed the latest US military action in Yemen. President Donald Trump announced on Saturday via his official X account that he had ordered “decisive and powerful military action” against Yemen’s Ansarullah resistance movement.
The US airstrikes began on Saturday and continued into early Sunday. According to Yemen’s Ministry of Health spokesperson, Anis al-Asbahi, the attacks have resulted in 31 deaths and 101 injuries, most of whom were women and children.
Yemen’s Response to Israeli Attacks
Since November 2023, Yemen has carried out over 100 attacks on Israeli-bound ships in response to Israel’s ongoing military actions in Gaza. These attacks have dealt a significant blow to Israel’s economy and have forced the US to deploy extensive military resources to intercept missiles and drones. The US has spent billions on air defense operations, rapidly depleting its military stockpiles.
The recent US strikes came after Yemen announced it would resume retaliatory actions against Israeli vessels. This decision followed Israel’s move to block aid shipments into Gaza, escalating tensions in the region.
Gaza Blockade Sparks Regional Conflict
Earlier this month, Israel tightened its blockade on Gaza after refusing to proceed with the second phase of a ceasefire deal with Hamas. The Israeli government aims to pressure Hamas into renegotiating the agreement, hoping to secure the release of more Israeli captives without withdrawing its forces from the Gaza Strip.
The escalating situation has raised concerns of broader regional instability, with Russia and other global powers calling for de-escalation. Moscow insists that diplomatic efforts are the only way to prevent further civilian casualties and worsening humanitarian conditions.
International Calls for Peace
Russia’s appeal to the US underscores the growing global concern over the conflict’s impact. Lavrov’s call for dialogue echoes sentiments from other international organizations, including the United Nations, urging an end to hostilities in favor of negotiations.
With casualties mounting and tensions rising, the international community watches closely as diplomatic efforts continue. Whether the US will heed Russia’s call for restraint remains uncertain, but the urgency for a peaceful resolution is stronger than ever.
