MOSCOW (Sputnik) – Stances of Russia and the United States are diametrically different on a range of issues, but this should not be an obstacle for the establishment of mutually beneficial relations, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Monday.
"It is no secret that positions of Moscow and Washington are diametrically different on the whole range of international and regional policies. This cannot and should not become an obstacle to the establishment of normal communications and pragmatic, mutually beneficial relations between Russia and the United States," Peskov told reporters when asked whether Moscow’s and Washington’s stances on Iran could be an impediment to establishment of ties.
Meanwhile, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said Moscow regrets the latest sanctions the United States imposed on Iran after its latest missile test.
Iran is playing with fire — they don't appreciate how "kind" President Obama was to them. Not me!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) 3 февраля 2017 г.
"We regret that this happens," Ryabkov told reporters, noting that the existing mechanism ensuring the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear program is implemented without "specific problems."
Donald Trump's administration announced sanctions Friday against 25 individuals and entities based in Iran, Lebanon, the United Arab Emirates and China for allegedly supporting Tehran's ballistic missile program after its latest medium-range ballistic missile test on January 29.
"We have communicated this position to the US side too. We hope that the strict and accurate interpretation of the JCPOA provisions and the resolution will be important in determining Washington's future course in this area," he said.
Donald Trump has repeatedly advocated establishing a political dialogue with Moscow, particularly in regards to the fight against terrorism, and expressed readiness to build positive relations with Russia. Moscow has long been promoting the idea of fruitful cooperation with Washington.
