A high-ranking Russian diplomat, Alexander Darchiev, director of the Russian Foreign Ministry’s North American Department, warned that if the U.S. designates Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism, it would represent a point of no return, leading to a “most serious collateral damage” and a “complete rupture” in relations between the two countries. Darchiev emphasized that such a designation would cross a red line, making normal diplomatic interaction impossible.
He also addressed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, stating that increased Western military assistance, particularly long-range weaponry, has made the prospect of a negotiated settlement even more distant. Darchiev accused the West of escalating the conflict and warned against further provocations.
Regarding the situation surrounding Brittney Griner and Paul Whelan, two Americans detained in Russia, Darchiev said that Russia is willing to discuss a prisoner swap but criticized the U.S.’s public diplomacy on the matter, suggesting that the current “megaphone diplomacy” is counterproductive. He confirmed that discussions on a potential exchange are ongoing, but emphasized the need for a discreet approach. He also implied that Russia expects concessions from the U.S. in exchange for the release of Griner and Whelan.
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