Russian Govt. Considers Restrictions Against Turkey in Services Sector

MOSCOW (Sputnik) — The Russian government said Wednesday it is considering the introduction of restrictive measures against Turkey in the services sector as part of the economic response to the downing of a Russian warplane by a Turkish fighter jet.

"The government is indeed considering possible restrictive measures in the services sector," the Cabinet's press service said in a statement.

Russian media earlier circulated reports that the restrictions may affect the hotel business, pilot training as well as contracts under state orders in any sector.

On November 24, the Russian Su-24 bomber was brought down over Syria by an air-to-air missile fired from the Turkish F-16 fighter in response to an alleged violation of Turkish airspace by the Russian aircraft.

Both Russian and Syrian defence officials confirmed that the Su-24 never crossed into Turkish airspace, and was illegally downed over Syria.

In response to the incident, Russia introduced a set of measures against Turkey. The measures, which ban or restrict the activities of Turkish organizations in Russia and prohibit Russian employers to hire Turkish citizens, are due to take effect from January 1, 2016.