Russia updates foreign policy concept amid 'unprecedented' tensions
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov presented on Friday Russia's new foreign policy concept, signed by President Vladimir Putin. Putin argued that "cardinal changes in international life have required us to seriously adjust key strategic planning documents," including the direction of Russia's diplomatic activities.
Lavrov said the new concept acknowledges an "unprecedented level" of international tensions over the last decade and "provides for the possibility of taking symmetrical and asymmetric measures in response to unfriendly actions against Russia." He added that it allows for using the Armed Forces to repel or prevent an attack on Russia and its allies, warning that "anti-Russian steps of unfriendly states will, if necessary, be severely suppressed."