During the "Solovyov Live" program that took place on January 10, Solovyov characterized Central Asia as "our" territory and suggested the possibility of conducting a special military operation in regions influenced by Russia. He also expressed the opinion that the loss of Armenia is a serious problem for Russia.
Zakharova emphasized that Solovyov's words represent a personal opinion expressed within the framework of a private television channel. She added that his statements were formulated as questions, rather than as official statements.
“These statements were clearly distorted and presented as the official position of Russia. Such manipulations are unacceptable,” noted the representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry.
She also stressed that official positions are voiced by authorized persons and that the leadership of Russia has repeatedly expressed its views on issues related to the Soviet past, the post-Soviet space, and relations with independent states.
Zakharova noted that Russia has historically supported good-neighborly relations with the peoples of the South Caucasus and Central Asia, based on strategic partnership, fraternal friendship, and cooperation, which contributes to strengthening ties through personal contacts between state leaders.
“I would like to add that one should judge by actions. How many times have we come to help? How many times have we shown sincere emotions in joy and sorrow? How many times have we sought solutions to difficult situations together? This is what should be focused on, rather than succumbing to provocations, of which, unfortunately, there will be many. Let’s concentrate on real facts, not on fakes,” concluded Maria Zakharova.
