Blinken with the phrase “it is appropriate to discuss” assessed Russia’s ideas on security – RBK

State Department called Russia’s proposals on security in Europe appropriate for discussion

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, commenting on Russia’s proposals for security guarantees, statedthat among them there are both clearly unacceptable and those that can be discussed.

“There are some very obvious impassable elements in what the Russians put on the table [для обсуждения]… But there may be other issues that are appropriate to discuss. Just as there is what we put on the table [переговоров]what Russia needs to answer, ”said the head of the State Department.

According to him, Washington expects security talks with Moscow to begin in early 2022. Blinken noted that the United States is ready for diplomatic contacts through a variety of channels, including the NATO-Russia Council and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).

“Russia has made statements and published documents regarding the fact that it has claims, demands, concerns. The United States and all our European partners have them with regard to Russia’s actions. All this will be discussed, ”he assured.

Blinken also stressed that the United States is simultaneously engaging in “diplomacy and containment” towards Russia. During a meeting in Geneva between US and Russian Presidents Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin, as the Secretary of State recalled, the former told his colleague that Washington prefers more predictable and stable relations with Moscow. “But if Russia continues its reckless or aggressive actions, we will respond and respond decisively. <...> At the same time, President Biden made it clear that there is a much better way, and that is diplomacy. And we intend to participate in this if Russia does it too, ”he said.