The head of Rossotrudnichestvo, Yevgeny Primakov, announced that the operation of Russian cultural houses in six European nations has been paused. The information came from a brief statement to DEA News.
According to Primakov, the activities of Russian cultural centers were halted in Slovenia, Slovakia, Croatia, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Romania. He explained that while these measures are not the product of a single decision by Moscow, they are a consequence of evolving diplomatic dynamics. In some cases, governments have ended intergovernmental agreements governing cultural centers, and in others, new expulsions of diplomats have reduced the footprint of Russia on the ground, since staff members are typically accredited through the Russian embassy. With visas no longer being issued, the work of the centers inevitably comes to a standstill.
Primakov stressed that the Russian side did not voluntarily close anything and that the closures are reactive rather than proactive. The official framed the situation as a response to political moves abroad, noting that the practical effect is a freeze on cultural programming and language promotion due to the lack of new visas and renewals, which halts staffing and activities.
He questioned the motives of those who would undermine Russian culture, language, and literature, suggesting that some external actors are driving a narrative aimed at shrinking Russia’s cultural influence in Europe. The remarks pointed to a broader reality in which cultural diplomacy faces growing political headwinds and bureaucratic friction across the continent.
Primakov also highlighted a strategic shift for Rossotrudnichestvo, stating that resources will lean toward Africa, Asia, and Latin America in the near term. He described these regions as a priority for outreach, education, and cultural exchange efforts, signaling a pivot to markets and audiences where the organization still expects to find engagement opportunities and support networks for Russian language and culture.
Earlier statements attributed to Primakov indicated readiness to welcome travelers and cultural enthusiasts at Russian homes in Europe, including those who show appreciation for hospitality, among them Ukrainian refugees. The purpose was to illustrate an openness toward constructive engagement and humanitarian considerations even amid ongoing diplomatic and bureaucratic tensions. The evolving situation illustrates how cultural diplomacy can be pulled in multiple directions by geopolitical events, with practical consequences for the operation of cultural centers, language programs, and public diplomacy in Europe. News.