Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Maria Zakharova has hit back at the unfounded claims made by US Ambassador to Athens.
During a weekly briefing to journalists, Zakharova responded to questions made about US Ambassador Geoffrey Pyatt- that a Greek-Turkey conflict is allegedly in the interest of Russia alone.
Zakharova stressed that "unlike some other countries, Russia is not a fan of 'divide and conquer' and does not put the development of bilateral relations on the quality of their relations with a third country."
She pointed out that "Russia is interested in having a stable and understandable system of international relations and is in favour of commitment to common goals, combating global challenges such as international terrorism, organised crime, drug trade, climate change and, lately, the pandemic."
Zakharova said Russia is in favour of resolving disputes through negotiations under international law and stressed the need for prudence and a good neighbourhood, which concerns not only Greek-Turkish relations, but all cases.
"Firstly, do not forget the history of bilateral relations, which is always a good source of elements to be analysed. Secondly, remember the history of US relations with other countries," she reminded Pyatt.
"Mr. Pyatt accuses Russia of using energy resources as a weapon. This is not true. May I remind you that the US uses weapons as a weapon, against civilians in many sovereign countries," she added.
In addition, commenting on NATO's comments that Russia has been increasing its presence in the Mediterranean and has its troops at NATO's external borders, the Russian spokeswoman said "Russian ships have been present in the Mediterranean since unmemorised years. When NATO didn't even exist, Russian ships were there with different purposes: commercial, helping our partners, ensuring our security," adding that "it's not Russia approaching NATO, but it is NATO that is constantly expanding towards the Russian border."
