MOSCOW, March 22 (ST)- International law is practically not working, and there are few prospects to defend the interests of Russians abroad, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov expressed this opinion.
“Very few measures are possible because, let’s say, international law is practically not working, and other kinds of laws are virtually not functioning now in European countries,” Peskov said, responding to a question about what possible measures to protect Russians abroad amid mounting Russophobia.
The Kremlin spokesman expressed hope that the heat of Russophobic sentiment would subside. “The hysteria, one would hope, will not escalate further, but who knows. The hysteria is such that it certainly does not allow the Europeans to make any balanced decisions,” he stated, “These are very difficult times for Russians who live abroad, for Russian speakers.”
In another development, Peskov said that Russians who do not support the Russian operation in Ukraine are few, adding that he expects these citizens to understand what is happening.
“There are not many such citizens [that do not support the special operation]; the vast majority of our citizens – as indicated both by statistics and polls – over 75% of our citizens support the operation, support the actions of the President of Russia,” the spokesman told reporters Tuesday, adding that such statistics is a “totally irrefutable fact.”
“An intensive explanation of the goals of this operation, of the reasons behind this operation is going on. And we hope that those who currently disagree, will understand what is going on,” Peskov underscored.
According to the spokesman, “it is very important that those who disagree learn to navigate this flow of lies coming from the West about what is going on, and understand that not everything presented in the news there is true.”
Peskov noted that less than 25% of citizens disagree with the operation.
“Of course, [their] opinion is being heard, but, a minority is a minority anyway,” the spokesman said.
When asked about the Kremlin’s attitude towards artists who disagree with the special operation,” Peskov noted that “there are reports in the media that some people would like to leave, while some would like to stay while keeping their opinion.”
“This is a completely normal process,” he said, adding that “some will understand more later, and will come back.”
Compiled by: Basma Qaddour