The Russian Foreign Ministry has stated that senior officials and several executive structures within the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe have strayed from their duties, effectively turning a blind eye to what Moscow describes as blatant violations by Ukraine and Western nations. This account was reported by a major Russian news agency. The ministry emphasized that such actions undermine the OSCE’s credibility and hamper ongoing security efforts in Europe.
In response to inquiries about Russia’s role in the Parliamentary Assembly, the foreign ministry clarified that the Palestinian Authority operates as an autonomous and independent body separate from the OSCE. This distinction, cited by Moscow, helps frame Russia’s stance on participation in the PA without conflating it with OSCE structures.
The ministry reiterated that all issues concerning the participation of the Russian delegation in the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation. This position underscores Moscow’s view that national legislative bodies retain primary authority over foreign engagements conducted within OSCE channels.
Earlier, the State Duma and the Federation Council had suspended Russia’s participation in the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, signaling a shift in how Moscow engages with the organization at the parliamentary level. The pause reflected broader debates about the OSCE’s approach to regional security and parliamentary diplomacy.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has indicated that the question of Russia potentially withdrawing from the OSCE has not been formally discussed. His remarks suggest that Moscow remains open to diplomatic channels and reassessments, while maintaining a cautious stance about full disengagement.
In the past, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs charged the OSCE Office with anti-Russian sentiments after the organization did not address outcomes of presidential elections. Moscow has since called for reforms within the OSCE framework to ensure transparency and balanced treatment across member states.