U.S. Ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul said Washington sponsors only those Russian nongovernmental organizations that work to promote the development of civil society.
McFaul said in an interview with Voice of America radio that he wants to be absolutely clearly understood when he is saying that none of the money that the U.S. provides to promote the development of civil society in Russia is intended for political organizations, parties or movements, or for organizing demonstrations, or for supporting political leaders.
U.S. policy stipulates that grants can only go to non-party and independent nongovernmental organizations working to facilitate the development of civil society, he said.
McFaul expressed regret that such organizations are not supported in Russia.
Unfortunately, these groups are compelled to rely not only on American support, but also on Swedish, German and Japanese funds, he said.
A strong Russian state and strong Russian society are consistent with the United States’ national interests, he said.
