Putin Denounces Sanctions as ‘Discriminatory’ Before Beijing Visit
MOSCOW – Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned Western sanctions as ”discriminatory” and “illegitimate” on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, just days before a planned trip to China. the remarks signal moscow’s increasing reliance on Beijing as it navigates escalating economic pressure from the United States and its allies over the ongoing war in Ukraine.
The Kremlin’s intensifying rhetoric arrives as Putin prepares to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and other leaders during a forum in Beijing focused on the Belt and Road Initiative.This trip underscores a deepening strategic partnership between Russia and China, offering Moscow a crucial economic lifeline and a platform to challenge the Western-led international order. The sanctions, imposed in response to Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, have targeted key sectors of the Russian economy, including energy, finance, and technology.
“These sanctions are of a discriminatory nature, illegitimate from the point of view of international law,” Putin stated during a televised address. He further accused the West of attempting to “contain” Russia and hindering its growth.
Ukrainian President volodymyr Zelenskyy responded to Putin’s statements, noting they were “clear signals to the United States, to Europe, and to the leaders who these days are in China and will be meeting with Putin,” according to a post on X (formerly Twitter). Zelenskyy’s comments highlight Kyiv’s concerns that Beijing may offer increased support to Moscow, potentially prolonging the conflict.
The sanctions have demonstrably impacted the Russian economy, though the extent remains a subject of debate. While Russia has managed to redirect some trade to countries like China and india, it continues to face challenges in accessing key technologies and financial markets. The upcoming meeting in Beijing will likely focus on expanding economic cooperation, including increased energy trade and infrastructure projects.