Russia’s Acting Permanent Representative to the EU, Kirill Logvinov, shared his views in an interview with Lente.ru, addressing Moscow’s stance on the European Union’s latest set of sanctions. He emphasized that Russia would not ignore the EU’s 10th package and outlined how Moscow intends to respond in a way that preserves its strategic interests while avoiding reckless escalation. The diplomat highlighted a clear distinction between the goals pursued by the European Union and Moscow when it comes to sanctions. European leaders are pursuing measures that, in their view, tighten pressure on Russia to change its policies. Logvinov asserted that Russia does not aim to worsen conditions within Western economies as a deliberate outcome of the sanctions, a contrast to the opposite effect they claim to observe on the Russian Federation.
In discussing frozen assets, Logvinov pointed out that these funds enjoy protections that shield them from administrative actions. He argued that such protections prevent any transfer of these assets to Ukraine or similar uses. He also criticized the EU for attempting to seize the assets of Russians abroad, describing such moves as illegal actions that undermine international norms and bilateral relations. The diplomat stressed that Moscow would monitor these developments closely and would respond if necessary to safeguard national interests and the rights of its citizens overseas.
Logvinov warned that any move seen as an unlawful seizure or coercive measure against Russian assets would provoke a measured yet decisive reaction from Russia. He underscored that the response would be calibrated to address the perceived injustice without engaging in unnecessary provocation. The overarching message from Moscow is a call for restraint and a return to legal norms while preserving the ability to protect Russian citizens and interests abroad.
On the geopolitical stage, there is ongoing chatter about the European Union preparing a renewed round of sanctions. Recent reporting from Bloomberg indicates that EU diplomats are discussing new restrictions against Russia, with discussions reportedly scheduled for February 22. The EU’s approach remains focused on tightening economic and political pressure, while Moscow maintains that its policy will respond proportionately to such measures. The dialogue between Brussels and Moscow continues to hinge on the balance between deterrence and stability, with both sides signaling readiness to adjust their tactics based on evolving developments and international norms. In this environment, the strategic posture of the Russian side aims to project resilience and readiness to defend national interests while engaging in oligopolistic, well-structured diplomacy that seeks to minimize collateral damage for ordinary citizens.
Observers note that the interplay of sanctions and responses shapes broader regional security dynamics in Europe. The narrative from Moscow stresses legality, proportionality, and the protection of citizens and assets abroad as guiding principles. Meanwhile, Western officials frame sanctions as a tool to compel policy changes and to signal resolve. As this diplomatic chess moves forward, the international community watches closely for shifts in policy, potential retaliatory measures, and the broader implications for global energy markets, trade routes, and diplomatic trust across the Atlantic. The situation remains fluid, with both sides signaling openness to dialogue, even as they prepare for eventual escalations or de‑escalations depending on how events unfold and on the interpretations of international law.