Econ min: Russia may answer to new US sanctions symmetrically

MOSCOW, Dec 23 (PRIME) -- Russia may give a symmetrical answer to the recent extension of the U.S. sanctions against Moscow, Economic Development Minister Alexei Ulyukayev told reporters Wednesday.

On Tuesday, the U.S. Treasury extended the anti-Moscow sanctions list over the Ukrainian conflict with 34 Russian and Ukrainian individuals and companies, including some affiliates of Russian banks Sberbank and VTB Bank, real estate developer Hals Development, Novikombank, and payment service Yandex.Money.

“I think that a symmetrical answer is the usual practice in such cases, and if an unfriendly act happens, it is usually responded to. So, a certain reaction from us would be normal,” he said.

“These sanctions are not significant from the macroeconomic point of view, as they are mainly against individuals and legal entities and are not sectorial. It is only politically motivated behavior, which should receive a political response.”

First Deputy Economic Development Minister Alexei Likhachyov said the ministry has already begun the analysis of the new sanctions and will do everything possible to minimize their consequences for the Russian economy.

He also said he thinks the U.S. position is illogical as “on the one hand, we are looking for a common ground and trying to coordinate work in fighting terrorism, liquidation of global challenges, and (provision) of security. On the other hand, (the U.S.) continues to choose individual and important economic pressure points to pinch Russia harder,” he said.

“I think it is very illogical and even eclectic. I’d like to see a more coherent U.S. external policy course.”

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