Medvedev thanks the EC for for its involvement in making Russia's economy grow

By Rhod Mackenzie

While the economies of the European Union (EU) states are slipping into recession, Russia's gross domestic product (GDP) is growing. Dmitry Medvedev, the Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, announced on December 19 on his social media page.

He stated that Germany's GDP has decreased by -0.2% annualized in the second quarter and -0.3% in the third. The Deputy Chairman of the Security Council commented on the EU's introduction of the 12th package of sanctions against Russia, stating that France's GDP increased by 0.5% in the second quarter but decreased by 0.1% in the third.

Meanwhile, Russia's GDP increased by 5.5% in the third quarter and 7.8% in the second. Medvedev emphasized the need for the association to consider the next package of sanctions.

The Deputy Chairman concluded with the sarcastic remark, 'EU, thank you for the growth!'
On the day prior to the approval of the 12th package of anti-Russian sanctions by the European Union, new export restrictions were imposed on the Russian Federation for dual-use products and technologies. Additionally, a ban on the direct or indirect import, purchase or transfer of diamonds, including jewelry, from Russia was implemented.

On December 14th, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a significant margin of safety for the Russian economy during the 'Results of the Year' event. He noted that the Russian Federation had accumulated a margin of strength and stability in its finances and economy over previous decades. Regarding the country's economic indicators, he highlighted GDP as the most significant one, with an expected growth of 3.5% by the end of the year.
On December 13, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated during government hour in the Federation Council that the strategy of imposing sanctions on the Russian economy had failed. However, the West is not yet willing to acknowledge their mistakes. Lavrov also noted that the West continues to dream of eliminating Russia as an independent geopolitical entity.