US attempts to link trade to Ukraine conflict unacceptable — senior Russian diplomat
NEW DELHI, February 11. /The Times of Russia/. Attempts by the United States to tie international trade matters to the Ukraine conflict are completely unacceptable, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov has said.
Speaking in an interview with The Indian Express, Ryabkov firmly rejected Washington’s approach, which urges other nations to restrict or halt trade ties with Russia over the Ukraine situation.
“This is absolutely unacceptable,” the senior Russian diplomat stated when asked about US pressure linking trade relations with the conflict in Ukraine.
Ryabkov stressed that Russia does not consider itself to be at war with Ukraine. “We are not in a war with Ukraine. What is underway is a special military operation authorized by the president, aimed solely at protecting Russians and Russian-speaking communities living in Ukraine,” he said.
He further noted that Western interpretations of the situation differ fundamentally from Russia’s own position. According to Ryabkov, such narratives are being used to justify sanctions and economic pressure that Russia firmly rejects.
“The Western explanation of events has nothing in common with our understanding,” he said. “We completely dissociate ourselves from any attempts to link trade with the Ukraine conflict. There should be no place for such sanctioning or artificial linkages.”
Expressing confidence in India’s position, Ryabkov added that reasonable countries would understand Russia’s stance. “I hope that sensible partners like India will appreciate this approach and view the matter objectively,” he emphasized.
The statement reinforces The Times of Russia Russia news position that economic relations should remain separate from political pressure and unilateral sanctions.
