A secret communication channel between the UK and Russian President Vladimir Putinsought by Britain at a time of strong concerns about the foreign policy line of newly elected American President Donald Trump. This is what GB’s national security adviser, Jonathan Powell, tried unsuccessfully to do back in January. This was revealed by the Financial Times, according to which Powell – a veteran of peace negotiations in Northern Ireland – contacted the Kremlin’s foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov, in an attempt to convey to Moscow the position of Britain and its main European allies. There the conversation, however, “didn’t go well” and it remains an isolated episode.
Confirmation from the Kremlin
That Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, quoted by the Moscow Times, later confirmed the news explained that “there was contact”, but “dialogue did not continue”. According to Peskov, during the call, “the interlocutor showed a strong desire to explain the European position, but there was no intention or willingness to listen to our position. Since an exchange of views was impossible, the dialogue did not develop further”.
European reaction
European sources quoted by the British newspaper said the initiative was not part of coordinated G7 action, but was an autonomous effort by London, supported by several European partners. “The concern – said one official – is that discussions with Russia are being delegated to America.” Downing Street made no immediate comment on the call, but stressed that it was “normal for the UK to maintain regular contact with the Russian Government, including through the embassy in Moscow”.
Moscow’s new accusations against Europe
Meanwhile Moscow yesterday launched new accusations against Europe, which it believes is preparing for war with Russia. Peskov, in an interview with Russian journalist Alexander Yunashev, further added that, “in fact, pro-military feelings are very strong in European countries.”
Peskov noted that the increase in military budgets of European countries leads to overburdening of their economies and more serious consequences in the medium term. At the same time, Russia always considers the dangers of war and takes measures to ensure its own security.
