Vladimir Putin: decrease of American diplomatic mission is possible

Moscow may decrease a number of American diplomats in Russia further on, Russian President Vladimir Putin believes. However, the country’s administration will not use this possibility so far, TASS informs. “We shall see how it goes later on,” he added.

The head of state has explained that now the number of staff deployed in Russian and American Embassies is equal – four hundred fifty people from each side. However, this number from our side also includes one hundred fifty five diplomats representing Russia in the United Nations. Vladimir Putin has noted that these people did not get accreditation of the US Department of State, as they are UN employees.

Vladimir Putin has also stressed that Washington could cut down the number of Russian diplomatic buildings and the US authorities are entitled for this action. However, it was done improperly, which does not do any good to the image of our oversea partners.

He promised to assign Russian Foreign Ministry to address the American court regarding the expropriation of Russian diplomatic property in USA. Vladimir Putin has explained that this is evident infringement of Russia’s property rights.

President has added that it is very hard to lead a dialogue with people who do not see any difference between Austria and Australia. He has expressed regrets that nothing could be done with such a low level of political culture of some American elite’s representatives. American nation is great as it tolerates such a big number of people with such a low level of political culture”, he said.

Russkiy Mir