Press release on Iceland’s decision to downgrade diplomatic relations

The decision taken by the Icelandic authorities to lower the level of diplomatic relations with Russia destroys the entire range of Russian-Icelandic interaction, which has traditionally been based on mutual respect and multifaceted cooperation. It is well known that the Russian Federation made an important contribution to the establishment of a sovereign Icelandic state, was one of the first countries to recognise its independence, and did much to protect the interests of Iceland during the difficult times for the Icelandic people.

The responsibility for this development lies entirely on Iceland’s side. We will take this unfriendly decision into account when building our relations with Iceland in the future. There will inevitably be a response to all of Reykjavik's anti-Russia actions.