Kremlin: US initiative to recognize Russia as "sponsor of terrorism" undermines dialogue

MOSCOW, Oct 24 (KUNA) -- The Kremlin said on Friday that US Senate initiative to recognize Russia as a "state sponsor of terrorism" aims to undermine the dialogue between Moscow and Washington.
A statement by the Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, said that these legislative initiatives, including a bill recognizing Russia as a "state sponsor of terrorism" due to the "abduction of Ukrainian children" undermine dialogue with the US.
Zakharova added that these initiatives also diminish the efforts of reuniting children who lost contact with their families during the conflict in Ukraine.
She explained that that the direct contact with the US will not only facilitate family reunification but also allow the international community to see the reality of the humanitarian situation.
She confirmed that Russia is demonstrating a willingness to provide objective and detailed information about the children.
Zakharova said as a result of this cooperation, seven minors reunited with their families in Ukraine, and one girl returned from Ukraine to her relatives in Russia on October 11.
Russian presidential spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, in a press statement, that Moscow acts based on its national interests and remains open to dialogue with Washington if founded on mutual respect.
He added that President Vladimir Putin does not rule out a future Russia-US summit but insists it should be productive and meaningful rather than protocol meeting. (end) dan.ao