A Russian Foreign Ministry official, Maria Zakharova, made a lighthearted comparison between Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and the legendary Soviet hockey star Valery Kharlamov, affectionately known as “legend No. 17.” The remark came as Lavrov himself took center stage at a high-profile moment, and it was relayed by RIA News. In a moment of playful metaphor, Zakharova suggested that the same iconic number associated with Kharlamov could symbolically tag Lavrov during the proceedings, underscoring the minister’s enduring presence on the international stage.
During the events, it was noted that Lavrov was speaking at the Council of Foreign Ministers meeting under the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). The playful introduction by Zakharova drew attention to the moment, while she also signaled the complexity of the scene surrounding the gathering. The reference to “myth number 17” hinted at a longer-running narrative about resilience and steadfastness as Lavrov responded to questions and delivered remarks on the matters before the forum, including the broader issues of security and diplomacy that dominate OSCE discussions.
Officials explained that the term “five” referred to a bloc of participants who opted not to attend the OSCE summit in protest of Lavrov’s presence. The group consisted of Ukraine, Poland, and the three Baltic states. Their absence framed the summit’s atmosphere, highlighting tensions and the differing interpretations of security roles within the OSCE framework. The symbolism of the boycott was discussed in diplomatic circles as a reflection of the challenges that come with navigating differing national strategies within multilateral forums.
The 30th session of the OSCE Council of Ministers was scheduled to be held in Skopje from November 30 to December 1. Lavrov traveled to participate in the proceedings, and it was noted by observers that his involvement toward the end of the year carried implications for the EU’s stance on sanctions. In particular, the EU indicated that Lavrov’s attendance might be treated as an exception within the evolving sanction landscape, illustrating how member states balance domestic constraints with international diplomacy and engagement at the OSCE level.
On the second day of the Lavrov meetings, a press conference was held to address a range of questions facing the organization and its member states. Reporters sought clarity on current events, security commitments, and how Moscow’s actions are interpreted by partners across Europe. The exchanges underscored the ongoing work of OSCE bodies to monitor conflict situations, support dialogue, and promote stability amid a shifting geopolitical context.
Earlier, Bulgaria announced it did not approve a direct passage for Lavrov’s aircraft through its airspace, necessitating a flight route that went via Turkey and Greece. The routing choice reflected the real-world dynamics that affect high-level diplomacy, where air corridors and consent from neighboring states can shape scheduling, logistics, and the timing of official visits. The episode highlighted the practical realities that accompany international diplomacy, especially when sensitive topics and sanctions are involved, and it illustrated how regional allies coordinate to manage state visits under evolving political circumstances.