Russian Ambassador Korchunov called the 17th package of EU sanctions an example of the policy of neocolonialism.

The new, 17th package of Western sanctions against Russia is an example of the policy of neocolonialism in Europe, the imposition of services and products contrary to the free market. This was announced on July 13 by Russian Ambassador to Oslo Nikolai Korchunov, commenting on the Norwegian government's support for EU sanctions against Russia.

"Sanctions are a vivid example of the Western policy of neocolonialism, the imposition of its services and products contrary to the mechanisms of the free market. It is obvious that countries promoting such restrictions are still thinking within the framework of neocolonial logic, ignoring the realities of a multipolar world," Korchunov told RIA Novosti.

He clarified that the restrictions of European countries are also aimed at the activities of the so-called "shadow fleet", allegedly related to the Russian side.

The diplomat also drew attention to the fact that the actions of the West reduce trust, disrupt the supply chain and can lead to humanitarian risks. In his opinion, the responsibility for the consequences will be entirely on the initiators of this policy.

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Sanctions are no longer relevant

The Politico newspaper said on June 30 that the adoption of the 18th package of sanctions against Russia in the EU was postponed due to disagreements between a number of countries. In turn, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico stressed on June 26 that restrictions against the Russian Federation do not work, and the sanctions policy makes sense precisely when it really has an impact.