Russia’s top diplomat in the US has issued a stern warning to Washington in response to Joe Biden’s approval of a bill providing $61 billion (£49 billion) in additional wartime aid to Ukraine.
Anatoly Antonov, the Russian Ambassador to the US, expressed grave concerns regarding the implications of the decision on fresh Ukraine aid made earlier this week.
Antonov stated in an exclusive interview with Newsweek: “America has chosen the path of war and agonising delays of the inevitable collapse of the Zelensky regime.
“With their decision, local politicians are actually deciding the fate of an entire country, which is being used as a ‘battering ram’ against Russia.”
Antonov’s comments underscore the escalating tensions between the US and Russia over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has intensified in recent months. While the US views the situation as a response to Russian aggression, Moscow perceives it as a consequence of NATO expansionism along its borders.
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He added: “The US did not leave us any leeway while bringing down the much-needed and beneficial bilateral strategic dossier, putting the world before the nuclear threat being escalated by Washington.”
The top diplomat warned that America’s aggressive stance risks destabilising global security and escalating into a direct confrontation between nuclear powers.
The aid package, which is part of a broader $95 billion (£76 billion) foreign aid bill, has garnered support from the US Congress and Biden. It includes various forms of assistance to Ukraine, such as weapons, ammunition, and financial support.
Despite celebrations among Ukraine’s supporters, Antonov condemned the aid and said it “launched an all-out hybrid war against us,” with the Biden administration “encouraging attacks on Russian territory, including strategic deterrent facilities.”
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In addition to the military aid, the legislation allows for the transfer of frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine financially. Antonov criticised this provision as another attempt to undermine Russia’s stability and sovereignty.
He said: “The United States is performing a balancing act above burning ground. With bravado of a duelist, it fatally balances on the brink of a direct clash between nuclear powers.
“But it can no longer stay on the thin, worn-out ‘tightrope’ of the world order. The US is ready to rush headlong into the abyss, dragging others with it.”
As tensions continue to mount between the U.S. and Russia, Antonov emphasized that Russia remains united in its support of President Vladimir Putin and its military objectives. He reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to achieving its goals in the conflict despite the challenges posed by external pressures.
