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Press release on a meeting with heads of diplomatic missions of Latin American and Caribbean states

14 March 2022 21:12
507-14-03-2022

On March 14, Director of the Department of Latin America and Special Representative of the Foreign Minister on relations with Latin American and Caribbean states Alexander Shchetinin had a meeting with heads of diplomatic missions of Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) states accredited in Moscow.

Mr Shchetinin briefed them on the progress of the special military operation in Ukraine, drawing the diplomats' attention to the fact that by launching this operation, Russia derailed Kiev's plans to carry out a joint biological weapons programme with the United States. He also highlighted multiple violations of international humanitarian law by the Ukrainian military.

In his remarks, the Russian diplomat emphasised Ukraine's attempts to form the so-called International Legion of Territorial Defence, including by recruiting citizens of Latin American and Caribbean states. He pointed out that the organisers and participants in this reckless undertaking will bear full responsibility for the lives of those who decided to take part in illegal armed activity on Ukrainian soil.

Mr Shchetinin went on to stress that the West declared an economic and humanitarian war on Russia without respecting any rules by exerting unprecedented pressure through sanctions. In particular, this has violated the rights of Russian nationals in LAC states with several thousand tourists unable to fly back home. He thanked the governments of the corresponding countries for recognising the humanitarian dimension of this issue and providing their assistance.

It was also stated that in these challenging circumstances the commitment to expanding bilateral political, trade, economic and humanitarian ties with Latin American states overrides momentary considerations.

Taking the floor, the ambassadors spoke about the current matters related to students from LAC countries staying in Russia considering the financial and economic restrictions imposed on Russia.

The participants also discussed certain matters related to the operation of the diplomatic corps in Moscow against the backdrop of the sanctions pressure Russia is facing.