West Again Imposing Sanctions Against Russia, Kremlin Spokesperson: Nothing New

JAKARTA - The Kremlin on Monday ignored Western's latest sanctions against Moscow, saying the Russian economy had adapted to restrictions, while those imposing sanctions would harm themselves.

The United States on Friday imposed extensive sanctions on Russia, targeting more than 500 people and entities, during Russia's two-year invasion of Ukraine, as well as retaliation for the deaths of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

"There is nothing new to be announced, and it looks like nothing new can be thought of by those who impose these sanctions without harming their own economy," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

Peskov also said the sanctions caused indirect losses to the European economy and the interests of US companies.

Last week's sanctions targeted Russia's Mir payment system, its financial institutions and military industry bases, sanction avoidance, future energy production and the leading Sovcomflot tanker group, as well as other areas.

Sanctions are also aimed at prison officers who, according to America, are linked to Navalny's death.

"The Russian economy has shown its resilience," Peskov said.

"He has adapted and continued his development," he said.

The Russian economy rose sharply in 2023 from a slump in 2022, but growth relies heavily on state-funded production of weapons and ammunition, as well as covering up problems that hinder the increase in the living standards of the Russian people.

Separately, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) expects Russia's economy to grow 2.6 percent this year, but anticipates difficult times in the future. Meanwhile, the Bank of Russia estimates that economic growth in 2024 will be 1.0-2.0 percent.