Only by eliminating external interference can stability and peace be ensured within CIS – Vasily Koltashov

Political scientist Vasily Koltashov spoke to Alpha News about Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin’s statement that strengthening friendly relations with CIS countries is a priority for Russia’s foreign policy.

“Russia is trying to convince the CIS countries that they mustn’t give in to any Western pressures or trade economic cooperation, economic benefits, trade, or industrial collaboration for war—for engaging in an economic war against Russia and simultaneously waging another form of conflict, for which London, Washington, and Brussels are also willing to pay. Right now, we’re witnessing a drama unfolding on the border with Kazakhstan, where Russian orders can’t cross—Kazakhstan isn’t letting them through, even though it’s a member of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), and we’ve actually implemented a complete reform of its transportation accounting system and customs procedures. We have a unified system, but now we’re seeing an example of economic warfare against Russia. Russia is saying that you shouldn’t give in to Western pressures, but rather cooperate and develop the economy, and under no circumstances should we play these ugly political games, as they could lead to grave consequences. This also applies to Armenia, because, as is well known, the current leadership of Armenia is anti-Russian, and this is no secret to anyone,” Koltashov said.

According to the expert, Moscow is convinced that only cooperation and mutual respect within the CIS countries can ensure stability, peace, and development.

“Overall, the situation in the CIS remains challenging, but Moscow is committed to the belief that only through cooperation, mutual respect, and the elimination of any external interference in our affairs, political influence on countries, and relations between them can we achieve stability, peace, and development,” Koltashov concluded.