Kremlin says Russia, Türkiye look for ways to protect bilateral cooperation from Western pressure

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) - Russia and Türkiye are exploring ways to protect their bilateral cooperation from Western pressure, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday.

Speaking at a press briefing in St. Petersburg, Peskov said the US and UK are exerting "unprecedented pressure" on countries through "pseudo intelligence agencies" established to monitor violations of anti-Russian sanctions.

"These representatives come to Ankara, gather officials and business leaders, and rudely threaten them," he said.

Peskov acknowledged that Russia and Türkiye are experiencing difficulties in their economic ties, with sanctions negatively impacting the Russian-Turkish business dialogue.

"We are looking for ways to circumvent this Western pressure. We will definitely find them," he said.

Regarding President Vladimir Putin's visit to Türkiye, Peskov explained that it has been delayed due to difficulties in coordinating the schedules of the two leaders.

"It was not possible to align the presidents' schedules, but high-level contacts will continue in the very near future. Preparation for such contacts is ongoing," he said.