Russia’s Lavrov: Ready to Break Ties with EU if Sanctions Imposed

By Staff, Agencies

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov expressed his country’s readiness to cut its ties with the European Union if exposed to crippling sanctions.

In excerpts from an interview posted by the interviewer on his Telegram channel, Lavrov said the prospect could materialize if the EU were to impose heavy restrictions on Russia, including on the sensitive sectors of its economy.

"If you want peace, brace for war," the top Russian diplomat said.

"We proceed from the fact that we're ready [for that]. In the event that we again see sanctions imposed in some sectors that create risks for our economy, including in the most sensitive spheres," Lavrov said.

He further added: "We don't want to isolate ourselves from global life, but we have to be ready for that. If you want peace then prepare for war.”

The full interview is due to be released later on Friday.