Russian deputy foreign minister says diplomatic relations with U.S. could be severed if frozen Russian assets are seized

Russia is prepared to sever diplomatic relations with the United States if American authorities decide to seize Russian assets or continue “fueling military escalation” in Ukraine, said Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov in an interview with Interfax.

“We are ready for any scenario. The U.S. should not be under any illusion, if it exists, that Russia is, so to speak, desperately clinging to diplomatic relations with this country,” Ryabkov stated.

He also added that Russia does not intend to “take the initiative in breaking off” relations with the U.S., as both countries “play a central role in maintaining international security and strategic stability.”

However, Ryabkov noted that it would “not come as a surprise” to the Russian authorities if Washington officially lowered its diplomatic presence in Russia or severed relations, as the U.S. has “doctrinally enshrined its intention to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia.”

Ryabkov described the overall state of Russian–American relations as “comatose” and said that the “fragile balance” could be disrupted at any moment due to “Washington's recklessness.”

Putin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, commenting on the potential confiscation of Russian assets, stated that such actions are dangerous for the global financial system. He added that Russia would “never leave those who did this in peace” and would reciprocate.