European Nations Condemn IMF's Plan to Resume Russia Missions

Nine European countries expressed strong disapproval of the IMF's decision to resume missions to Russia, arguing that such actions would tarnish the institution's credibility. They urged the IMF to refrain from cooperation with Russia amidst its ongoing war against Ukraine and highlighted potential risks of misinformation and propaganda.

Nine European countries protested on Friday against the International Monetary Fund's plans to resume missions to Russia, asserting that it would damage the Fund's reputation to engage with a nation that has invaded another.

Following Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the IMF suspended its annual consultations with Russia. However, the IMF announced plans to resume online consultations on September 16 and conduct a delegation visit to Moscow until October 1.

In a letter to IMF head Kristalina Georgieva, the finance ministers of Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Finland, Sweden, Iceland, Denmark, Norway, and Poland expressed their dissatisfaction. They argued that Russia, being an aggressor country, should not benefit from IMF advice, and that this move could undermine donor countries' willingness to support Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies.)