Russians will have to learn to live under sanctions restrictions for decades to come, regardless of the outcome of the war against Ukraine. This was stated by Dmytro Birichevskyi, director of the Department of Economic Cooperation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, speaking at the Valdai discussion club.
Birichevsky emphasized that the sanctions introduced by Western countries are aimed at the long-term isolation of Russia from the world economy. According to him, these restrictions will remain in force for many years, regardless of how the war in Ukraine ends.
"This story is for decades. Whatever the process and result of the settlement, Birichevsky noted, hinting that even after the end of the conflict with Ukraine, Russia will remain under the pressure of sanctions.
Birichevskyi also expressed the opinion that the purpose of Western sanctions is not only to punish Russia for its aggression against Ukraine, but also "unfair competition." He argues that the restrictions were put in place long before the war began, and the war was only a "pretext" for further sanctions pressure.
"They impose new sanctions, new restrictions. This is how the spiral goes. And to wait for it to stop - I wouldn't count on it," Birichevskyi said.
To date, more than 20,000 sanctions have been imposed against Russia, which include personal, sectoral restrictive measures and asset freezes. These restrictions have a serious impact on industry, the banking system and the country's economy as a whole.
However, according to Birichevskyi, the sanctions force Russia to adapt and "rebuild the structure of the economy." Rejection of traditional partners and change of economic priorities become inevitable in conditions of isolation.
