Federation Council Chairman Valentina Matviyenko stated that discussions so far have not touched on pulling Russia out of the World Trade Organization, the International Monetary Fund, or the World Health Organization. She spoke on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, making clear that no decision of secession has been contemplated at this stage. The comments were delivered in St. Petersburg and captured through official channels. (Source: TASS)
When asked whether Russia should remain a member of these international bodies, Matviyenko stressed that there is no immediate move to disengage. She highlighted that, at present, there exists space for cooperation and interaction within the framework of these institutions, even as questions about their effectiveness and aims linger. The emphasis, she implied, is on continuing dialogue rather than drastic withdrawal. (Source: TASS)
The spokesperson for the Federation Council added that there are concerns about how these organizations operate and whether they still align with their original purposes. According to the official, certain international bodies seem to have strayed from the aims with which they were created, prompting Russia to scrutinize their activities and to reassess the value of continued membership. This stance reflects a broader push to reexamine alignment with global institutions and the benefits of ongoing participation. (Source: TASS)
Matviyenko pointed to specific examples, noting that the World Health Organization has not yet registered Russia’s coronavirus vaccine, while the WTO has not adequately responded to sanctions imposed on Russia. These points illustrate practical friction in functioning and signal why Moscow is weighing the real benefits of long-standing commitments against evolving geopolitical and public health needs. (Source: TASS)
Earlier in June, the Russian business daily Kommersant cited an IMF report suggesting that global economies could gain significantly by phasing out coal, with estimates around trillions of dollars in potential benefits. The report’s framing underscores a broader conversation about how international financial institutions influence energy policy and economic reform in large economies, including Russia. The discussion continues as officials consider strategic options for future participation in these institutions. (Source: Kommersant, IMF report)