The spokesman for the President of the Russian Federation, Dmitry Peskov, spoke in a recent interview about the influence of foreign powers on Russia’s economic landscape. He described how American ambassadors stationed around the world have, in his view, used pressure and insinuation to shape corporate decisions regarding Russian markets. According to him, some diplomats have pursued what he characterized as coercive tactics that threaten to disrupt business activity unless foreign companies align with positions favored by Washington. He underscored that these pressures are not new in history and drew a comparison to earlier phases of geopolitics, but he added that there are potential routes to safeguard interests, even for those who face intimidating messaging.
Peskov noted that Moscow anticipates a smaller representation from Western countries at a major forum focused on global economics. He stressed that this development does not signify a deliberate pivot toward the East. He framed the broader global scene as nuanced and multifaceted, with power centers emerging beyond traditional capitals while existing links with Europe and other regions persist. He highlighted that growth and cooperation may come from a mix of Asian, Latin American, and European participants, even as some partners experience political or economic challenges. He described the shifting dynamics as a landscape where many players must navigate pressure, leverage opportunities, and seek balanced engagement rather than surrender to coercion.
Peskov also alluded to a scenario in which future discussions between Russian leadership and international business figures would continue to occur, though perhaps in a different format or with altered attendance. He hinted that a traditional, high-profile meeting involving Vladimir Putin and foreign business representatives might evolve in response to the evolving geopolitics and the practicalities of global commerce. This perspective reflects a belief that dialogue remains possible, even if certain arrangements look different than in the past, and that Russia will pursue avenues for constructive interaction with global markets while protecting its strategic interests. (citation: TASS)