You're reading: Dmitry Peskov: Russia will respond to sanctions imposed against it using principle of mutuality

Russia will proceed from the principles of mutuality regarding the countries imposing sanctions against it, but it does not rule out an asymmetrical response as well, Russian presidential press officer Dmitry Peskov said on July 31.

“In general, the principle of mutuality, no doubt, is a basic principle in this sanctions exchange. At the same time, one cannot rule out asymmetrical actions,” he told reporters, responding to a question as to whether Russia will respond with mutuality to further toughening of the sanctions against it.

At the same time, Peskov emphasized that the introduction of sanctions in response is not a goal in itself to Russia.

“Our attitude to such sanctions decisions by the U.S. is well-known. It has not changed and we believe these sanctions are illegal, contradict the norms of international law, inflict considerable damage to bilateral relations, and, most importantly, these are steps that the Americans are taking about any obvious reasons and without pursuing a specific goal,” he said.

He said such steps do not bring anything but negative effects.

According to earlier reports, the U.S. has added to the list of sanctions against Russia some other companies and private individuals, specifically, VEB and Rosneft structures.