We Do Not Intend to Respond in Kind: Zakharova Reacts to New Restrictions

The official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry, Maria Zakharova, announced that Moscow is developing a response to Kyiv’s imposition of a visa regime for Russians; however, they do not intend to act in kind when making decisions. Zakharova's remarks were quoted by RIA Novosti.

Ukrainian authorities have prohibited Russians from entering the country without a visa, effective July 1.

Zakharova stated that by canceling the intergovernmental agreement on visa-free travel between the two countries, Kyiv is deliberately aiming to cause maximum harm to communication between the residents of Ukraine and Russia, thereby severing friendly and interpersonal ties. “Currently, a clear response from the Russian side is being developed. However, we do not intend to act in kind when making decisions. First and foremost, we will consider Russia's interests and humanitarian considerations. We do not plan to create additional difficulties for ordinary Ukrainians, including refugees who are seeking protection in Russia from the persecution of Ukrainian nationalists. We also do not forget about the familial and other ties that unite the peoples of the two countries,” the Foreign Ministry's statement said.

Zakharova also emphasized that Russia has previously commented several times on the situation regarding the visa regime with Ukraine.