Russia Blames Baltic States for Cutting Most Relations

The Russian Foreign Ministry stated in comments published today, Sunday, that the "hostile" stance of the Baltic States has led to the severance of most relations with Russia and warned that Moscow will respond with asymmetrical measures. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova told Russian media: "Due to the open hostile position of Vilnius, Riga, and Tallinn, all relations between states, administrations, regions, and sectors with Russia have been cut off," referring to the capitals of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. She confirmed that Moscow will continue to employ diplomatic influence measures with the Baltic States. Zakharova did not specify the steps she indicated that the Baltic States had taken but stated to Russian media that Moscow would respond to hostile actions from Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia with asymmetrical measures. She added: "We will also respond to the hostile actions of the Baltic States with asymmetrical measures, particularly in the areas of economy and transit."