Russia puts US on list of 'Unfriendly States'

  • Russia formally designated the United States and the Czech Republic as "unfriendly states" amid the biggest crisis in ties between Moscow and Washington in years. 
  • The Russian government released a decree signed by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin that was accompanied by a list of "unfriendly states“, that "have carried out unfriendly actions" against Russia, Russian nationals or Russian entities. 
  • These countries will be prohibited from hiring Russian citizens to work in their diplomatic missions.
  • The Czech embassy will be allowed to employ no more than 19 Russian nationals and the US embassy none at all.
REASONS FOR THE STEP
  • In recent months tensions have spiralled between Russia and the West over a litany of issues, Including Russia's troop build-up on Ukraine's border, interference in US elections and other perceived hostile activities. 
  • Russia-US relations have rapidly deteriorated after Joe Biden increased pressure on the Kremlin since becoming US president.
  • After Biden likened Russian President Vladimir Putin to a "killer," Russia temporarily recalled its ambassador from the United States and later said the US envoy should also head to Washington for consultations. 
  • The US embassy in Moscow was forced to suspend most consular services to its nationals and stopped issuing visas due to a drastic reduction of its staff following the tit-for-tat sanctions.
  • Tensions have also spiralled with the Czech Republic after Prague accused Russian military intelligence of being behind a deadly explosion at an ammunition depot in eastern Czech Republic in 2014.

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