John Tefft
U.S. Ambassador to Russia John Tefft commented on Moscow’s decision to reduce the number of American diplomats in Russia. His words on Friday, 28 July, “Interfax”.
“We received official notice from the Russian government. U.S. Ambassador to Russia John Tefft expressed deep disappointment and strong objection. We passed this notice on to Washington for consideration,” — said in a statement the us Embassy received by the Agency.
Previously, on 28 July, the Russian foreign Ministry in response to the adoption by the Senate of the U.S. Congress of a bill toughening sanctions against Russia, suggested the United States until September 1 to reduce to 455 the number of personnel working in U.S. diplomatic missions in the Russian Federation.
“In the case of a new unilateral actions of the us authorities to reduce the number of our diplomats in the U.S. this will be followed by a mirror response,” — said the Russian foreign Ministry.
27 July the us Senate passed a bill on sanctions against Russia, Iran and North Korea. The document was approved by 98 senators, two opposed. The draft law sent for signature to President Donald Trump, who warned the White house can veto.
The bill provides for several limitations. In particular, it is proposed to reduce to 14 days the maximum period of funding of banks, which are under sanctions, and 30 days — for oil and gas companies. It is also assumed that the US President may take action against companies who intend to invest in the construction of the export pipeline more than five million dollars per year, or a million at a time. In addition, the document specifically mentions the desire of the United States to oppose construction of the pipeline “Nord stream-2”.