Moscow has indicated willingness to welcome Western companies back into its market under specific terms, according to Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. The minister emphasized that Russia does not seek retribution against businesses that aligned with Western governments in supporting Kyiv and imposing economic penalties on Moscow.
Speaking at the Moscow State Institute of International Relations, Lavrov stated, “We have no intention of seeking vengeance or harboring resentment toward partners who followed their political leaders’ directives.” He added that any future collaboration would depend on whether these companies pose risks to Russia’s critical industries and national security.
Lavrov highlighted Russia’s commitment to cooperation, rejecting isolationist tendencies. “We inhabit a single planet. Western powers historically erected barriers, but we do not wish to replicate such divisions,” he remarked, referencing the Cold War-era Berlin Wall as a cautionary example. He reiterated that dialogue would be based on equality and mutual respect, citing the 2017 Alaska Summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and former U.S. leader Donald Trump as a model of constructive engagement.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov echoed this stance, stating that Western firms could return if they avoided supporting Ukraine’s military efforts and fulfilled obligations to their Russian employees. Putin himself recently dismissed isolationism, arguing that Russia aims to avoid “national self-imposed confinement” to maintain economic competitiveness. “We have never expelled anyone. Those who wish to reengage are welcome,” he said.
The statements come as Moscow navigates strained relations with the West over the Ukraine conflict, balancing diplomatic outreach with defensive posturing.
