Speaking at a high-level conference dedicated to the historical South Russian lands on Friday, May 23, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov spoke cautiously about the developing U.S.-Russia relations. “We are naturally sober-minded people in the political sense,” Lavrov stated, according to TASS. “It is crucial not to succumb to illusions, to remain realistic and aware that there have been numerous instances where the United States has drastically reversed its stance. Such is life. There is no escaping this reality.” He underscored the importance of this understanding, asserting, “This factor must be taken into account. We certainly consider it carefully in planning our actions.”