Kremlin disregards influence of US sanctions before discussions

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The US threats of further sanctions against Russia are a form of artillery practice ahead of negotiations on security assurances, according to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov.

Earlier, The New York Times reported that the US is drafting new sanctions against Russia, which aim at impairing the supply of all consumer goods and domestic appliances, among other things.

"Yes, indeed, we see that our American opponents continue to threaten the impending sanctions, like a mantra. Obviously, information is being injected into various media outlets, like in the named newspaper, about what kind of sanctions they will be. I would say that this probably belongs to the category of such a kind of information artillery preparation before the round of consultations that took place yesterday," Peskov said.

These threats are unlikely to have an influence on the Russian delegation's participation in the security assurances consultations, according to the official.

"Of course, this does not contribute to the formation of such a constructive atmosphere on the eve of consultations, but nevertheless, this is the reality that we have to face, there is nothing terrible with this," told reporters.

It is worth mentioning that the West repeatedly accused Moscow of a troop buildup on the border with Ukraine and preparing for a military invasion - accusations Russia has long been denying.

The West had previously threatened Russia with "heavy sanctions", but Russian President Vladimir Putin said earlier this month Moscow pursues a peaceful foreign policy; however, it has the right to defend its security.