“Do we want relations on an equal basis? Yes, we do, but on the condition that our national interests are respected, in the sphere of security and in the sphere of economy,” the Russian leader told reporters.
In 2014 relations between Russia and the West deteriorated dramatically amid the crisis in Ukraine. Over the past few months, the United States and a number of its allies introduced several rounds of sanctions against Russia, accusing it of meddling in Ukraine's affairs. The sanctions particularly targeted the country's banking, defense and energy sectors, as well as certain individuals. Russia, in its turn, introduced a year-long ban on certain food imports from the countries that imposed sanctions against it. At the same time Moscow has significantly increased its economic cooperation with Asia-Pacific countries, the BRICS and Latin America.
However, during his annual state of the nation address to the Federal Assembly on December 4, Russian President said that Moscow has no plans to sever its relations with the United States or the European Union. He stressed that Russia remains open to foreign investment and other forms of business collaboration with all countries.
