Maslennikov, who serves as Director of the Department of European Affairs at the Russian Foreign Ministry, told reporters that the essence of this situation lies in the Russophobia of many EU politicians.

The high-ranking diplomat noted that the Russian side perceives “the intention of the European Commission (EC), presided over by Ursula von der Leyen, to create a long-term legal basis for the total severing of economic ties with our country, despite the damage already suffered by the EU.”

The diplomat noted at the same time that “life goes on,” and many niches that previously occupied by European companies in the Russian market “have been transferred to partners in other countries or developed by domestic companies.”

Maslennikov added that this factor, of course, will also be taken into account if Brussels’ foreign policy changes and conditions arise for more constructive interaction.

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