Russian Ambassador to Washington Anatoly Antonov said that some countries should consider reducing their reliance on the US dollar in light of the risk of seizures of Russian assets. This claim was shared by the Telegram channel of the Russian diplomatic mission. The ambassador framed the issue as not just a bilateral problem but a signal about shifting global financial norms, arguing that asset freezes have broader implications for international cooperation and trust in the dollar-centered system. The message underscored a growing concern among Moscow about how Western policy tools could affect state finances and international trade, urging partners to reassess currency dependencies in a way that safeguards their own financial sovereignty. [Citation: Russian diplomatic mission Telegram channel]
According to Antonov, Washington’s so-called innovative ideas, including asset seizure, run counter to established international law and basic common sense. He described the current state of relations as being pushed toward a standstill, emphasizing that the United States has created conditions that hinder meaningful dialogue. The ambassador warned that such measures provoke capitals to rethink the role of the dollar in global trade and finance, arguing that this reckoning is a prelude to a broader move toward diversification of reserve currencies and settlement currencies. The position was presented as part of a broader call for greater multipolarity in the world economy. [Citation: Russian diplomatic mission Telegram channel]
Antonov also stated that the ongoing friction has driven Russia and the United States to the brink of a profound diplomatic impasse. He contended that the adversarial posture makes it harder for both sides to find common ground on critical issues such as security, arms control, and economic cooperation. The envoy suggested that continued estrangement would not serve either nation well and could have ripple effects beyond bilateral ties, impacting regional stability and global governance. He urged a move away from punitive measures toward a more balanced, predictable framework for international engagement. [Citation: Russian diplomatic mission Telegram channel]
Additionally, the ambassador argued that there are no visible signals pointing to an imminent improvement, describing the tunnel as long and opaque. He asserted that the absence of signals does not justify surrendering long-term strategic interests or the possibility of constructive engagement in the future. In his view, resetting relations would require mutual concessions and a willingness to rebuild trust, a process that would benefit not only Russia and the United States but also the broader international community seeking stability, predictable markets, and reliable compliance with international norms. [Citation: Russian diplomatic mission Telegram channel]
Altogether, Antonov connected bilateral friction with a wider debate about the role of Western economic policy tools in global governance. He noted that reducing dependence on single-currency settlements could contribute to more resilient international trade networks, especially for countries seeking to shield themselves from unilateral financial coercion. The message reflected Moscow’s stance that a multipolar financial order, where several currencies and regional payment systems play significant roles, would enhance global economic resilience and reduce the risk of abrupt policy shifts. He referenced financial stabilization efforts across Europe and beyond, highlighting what he sees as a growing willingness among many states to explore sovereign asset protections and diversified reserve holdings. [Citation: Russian diplomatic mission Telegram channel]