The Kremlin condemned the "alert tone" in U.S. President Joe Biden's recent statements about Russia, considering them aggressive, unacceptable, and unconstructive, calling them "regrettable."
In another development, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, during a meeting with European diplomacy chief Josep Borrell in Moscow, warned of further deterioration in relations between Russia and the European Union, which he deemed "threatening unpredictable consequences." Lavrov stated that "the main problem we all face is the lack of return to normal relations between Russia and the EU, the largest players in the Eurasian region. This is certainly an unhealthy situation that benefits no one." He also noted that the Iranian nuclear agreement is entering a difficult phase, emphasizing that "everything depends on Washington's actions," while expressing Russia's willingness to cooperate with the EU to revive the Iranian nuclear deal.
Earlier, Borrell announced plans to discuss various topics with Lavrov, including the situation in Ukraine, the Iranian nuclear issue, and the fight against the coronavirus. The latter topic is particularly relevant, given the positive reactions in the West regarding the Russian "Sputnik" V vaccine and the interest of some European countries in purchasing it.
Borrell's visit to Moscow comes shortly before the EU summit in March, where European leaders intend to engage in strategic consultations concerning relations with Russia. EU foreign ministers will discuss "potential additional measures" concerning Russia and the situation of Russian opposition figure Navalny on February 22. Additionally, Borrell is scheduled to inform members of the European Parliament about the results of his trip to Russia on February 9.
