Russia extends anti-sanctions measures through 2026

ISTANBUL

Russia has extended special measures aimed at overcoming Western sanctions through 2026, the State Duma press service said on Saturday, citing legislation that keeps key government anti-crisis powers in force, according to Tass news agency.

The statement said the law, which entered into force on Jan. 1, maintains special rules for licensing activities, approves a list of goods eligible for parallel imports, and sets specific regulations for the circulation of medicines and medical devices.

It also extends the right to import and sell medicines in foreign packaging in Russia.

Vyacheslav Volodin, chairman of the State Duma, said the measures demonstrate resilience in the face of external pressure.

“By overcoming challenges, our country becomes stronger,” Volodin said, recalling that 30,711 sanctions have been imposed against Russia.

He claimed that despite the restrictions, the Russian economy is “developing successfully” and ranks as the largest in Europe and the fourth-largest globally.

Volodin also asserted that Germany ranks sixth and France ninth, arguing that sanctions have rebounded on European citizens.

He claimed the measures were a consequence of policies by Western leaders over the war in Ukraine, remarks that reflect Moscow’s long-standing position on the conflict.