Attempts to use the language of ultimatums and coercive measures against Russia “are counterproductive and contradict the norms and principles of international law,” Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says in an interview published by Russia Beyond The Headlines, a supplement to The Daily Telegraph.
“Attempts to settle crises by unilateral sanctions outside the framework of UN Security Council decisions threaten international peace and stability,” he said.” Such attempts are counter-productive and contradict the norms and principles of international law.”
“It is absolutely unacceptable to talk to Russia - or anyone for that matter - in the language of ultimatums and coercive measures,” Lavrov said.
On Russia’s counter-measures against the countries that have introduced sanctions against it, he said: “Our response to unilateral steps by the United States, EU and some other countries has been balanced and in line with the rights and obligations of Russia under international treaties, including the World Trade Organisation.”
“It is not at all our choice, but there should be no doubt that we will do whatever is necessary to protect our legitimate interests, including the interests of national security in all its dimensions,” Lavrov went on when a reporter asked him if Russia was going to respond to the new restrictive measures that might be taken against it.
Along with it, he stressed Moscow’s unwillingness to proceed along the road of escalation.
“We hope that the US, the European Union and others heed the voice of reason and put an end to this meaningless tit-for-tat vicious circle which they started,” Lavrov said.