Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has stated that Russia is not discussing the easing of sanctions with the US in exchange for the release of prisoners, and denied the existence of political prisoners in the country.
Source: Ukrainska Pravda, citing Interfax
Quote from Peskov: "In this context, this topic has not been and could not be discussed, because we categorically deny the existence of any political prisoners and consider such phrasing of the question absolutely inappropriate."
Details: At the same time, he noted: "As for the various exchanges that have taken place previously, our secret services maintain regular contact on this matter."
Responding to a clarifying question, the Kremlin spokesman also stated that, in principle, the topic of easing sanctions in exchange for the release of certain prisoners is not being discussed with the US.
Background:
- Earlier, The Atlantic reported that US President Donald Trump had allegedly agreed to a proposal by his special envoy, John Coale, to ease sanctions against Russia in exchange for the release of certain prisoners held in the Russian Federation.
- Prior to this, The New York Times reported that the White House was considering the possibility of signing certain business agreements with Russia to "prove its good intentions".
- It is worth noting that the Russian side has already attempted to "tempt" Trump with the benefits of potential economic cooperation, mentioning joint projects for the extraction of rare-earth metals and aluminium, projects in the Arctic, and the involvement of US companies in selling Russian natural gas to Europe.
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Originally reported by Ukrainska Pravda by Ivanna Kostina,Anastasia Prots. Read the full story at the source.
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