Kremlin on New US Sanctions: Russia Will Defend its Interests

MOSCOW (Sputnik) – Countries that have encountered the lawlessness of the US sanctions, including Russia and Iran, will defend their interests, this should be met with understanding, Peskov said.

"Overall, we consider such sanctions policy short-sighted, illegal and unpromising. Therefore, of course, all countries intend to defend their interests, all countries which have encountered such lawlessness intend to and will defend their interests, this should be met with understanding… The fact that Russia will defend its interests and protect its interests should not be surprising to anyone, of course," Peskov told reporters.

The sanctions target Russia's defense, intelligence, mining, shipping and railway industries and restricts dealings with Russian banks and energy companies. The bill also stressed that the United States would continue to oppose the construction of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline. The law also limits the US president's ability to ease any sanctions on Russia by requiring Congressional approval to lift any restrictions.

Earlier, the Russian Foreign Ministry described the new sanctions as "absolutely illegitimate" and responded with its countermeasures, suspending the use of all US Embassy warehouses and its compound in Moscow. Russia also mandated that the UScut the size of its diplomatic staff in Russia by 755 people by September 1.

sputniknews.com