Putin: Russia reserves right to cut further US diplomatic mission
XIAMEN, China: Russia reserves the right to cut further the number of US diplomatic staff in Moscow, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday, in response to what he called Washington’s “boorish” treatment of Russia’s diplomatic mission on US soil.
Speaking after US officials ordered Russia to vacate diplomatic premises in several American cities, Putin said he would order the Russian foreign ministry to take legal action over alleged violations of Russia’s property rights.
“That the Americans reduced the number of our diplomatic facilities — this is their right,” Putin told a news conference in the Chinese city of Xiamen, where he was attending a summit of major emerging economies.
“The only thing is that it was done in such a clearly boorish manner. That does not reflect well on our American partners. But it’s difficult to conduct a dialogue with people who confuse Austria and Australia. Nothing can be done about it. Probably such is the level of political culture of a certain part of the US establishment.”
“As for our buildings and facilities, this is an unprecedented thing,” Putin said. “This is a clear violation of Russia’s property rights. Therefore, for a start, I will order the Foreign Ministry to go to court — and let’s see just how efficient the much-praised US judiciary is.”
US President Donald Trump took office in January, saying he wanted to improve ties with Russia. Putin also spoke favourably of Trump.
But relations have been damaged by accusations from US intelligence officials that Russia sought to meddle in the presidential election. Russia has denied intefering in the vote.
Asked by a reporter if he was disappointed with Trump, Putin said: “Whether I am disappointed or not, your question sounds very naive — he is not my bride and, likewise, I am neither his bride nor bridegroom.”
“We are both statesmen. Every nation has interests of its own. In his activities, Trump is guided by the national interests of his country, and I by the interests of mine.”
The US order for Russia to vacate some of its diplomatic properties was the latest in a series of tit-for-tat actions.