Russia’s Foreign Ministry distances itself from propagandist Solovyov’s comments on Central Asia

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova commented on the remarks made by Russian television host Vladimir Solovyov regarding Central Asian countries and Armenia, stressing that they represent the journalist’s personal opinion expressed on the private channel Solovyov Live.

She also emphasized that the television host’s words were formulated as a question rather than as a statement.

“These phrases were presented in a clearly provocative manner by ‘armchair’ analysts almost as if they were Russia’s official position. Once again, I want to emphasize that the official position is expressed by officials who are duly authorized to do so.

“Our country has historically been connected with the South Caucasus and Central Asia by relations of good neighborliness, strategic cooperation, and fraternal friendship. One should judge by actions – by how many times we have come to help, shown the most sincere emotions, empathized and sympathized, and shared in joy,” Zakharova said.