Russian Senator Alexei Pushkov said that the “big gap” between Western countries and Russia will not help solve global problems in the field of energy, security, geopolitics, food and climate. He wrote about this on Tuesday, November 15, in his Telegram channel.

The politician reacted in this way to the news that Western leaders refused to be photographed with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov .

“Western leaders emphasize the “big gap” with Russia in every possible way. To have no illusions. Another thing is that this will not help in solving the most pressing problems in the field of energy, geopolitics, food, climate, and most importantly, in the field of security. Boycotts are sterile and unproductive,” Pushkov said.

On the same day, Lavrov took part in two meetings on food and energy security, as well as health issues. The minister said that Russia would increase hydrocarbon exports and expand the geography of deliveries.

In addition, the Russian minister held meetings with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and UN Secretary General António Guterres. Lavrov also spoke briefly with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.

He also commented on relations between Russia and the countries of the European Union (EU). Lavrov pointed out that “the soul of the European Union is dark.”

The day before, Scholz said that it was important to have joint discussions with Russia, and not isolate it at the G20 summit. He also expressed regret over the decision of Russian President Vladimir Putin not to take part in the summit.