'United States ignited conflict,' Russia says US abandoning talks, turning to sanctions
Russian presidential adviser Anton Kobyakov has claimed that Washington's efforts to tighten sanctions on Moscow are driven by concerns over the course of the war in Ukraine, accusing the United States of seeking to increase pressure on Russia while stepping back from negotiations.
Speaking on Saturday after the St Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), Kobyakov pointed to a proposed sanctions bill being developed in the U.S. House of Representatives under the Trump administration.
“Why did Marco Rubio and the US Congress propose to tighten sanctions the day before yesterday?” Kobyakov said. “It became clear to them that the outcome was not in their favour, but in our favour. And now what do they need to do? They need to make our lives as difficult as possible.”
He also criticised Washington's role in peace efforts, alleging that the United States was attempting to distance itself from negotiations after supporting Ukraine throughout the conflict.
“The United States is trying to get out of the negotiations,” Kobyakov said. “The United States ignited the conflict, dragged everyone into it, and now they pretend that they can become mediators.”
His remarks came days after U.S. lawmakers announced plans to develop additional sanctions targeting Russia.
Despite political tensions, Kobyakov said American businesses appeared interested in rebuilding ties with Moscow, citing the presence of a U.S. delegation at this year's forum after years of limited participation.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
