On non-issuance of visas to Russian journalists
The United States violated again its obligations under the UN Headquarters Agreement, having denied issuance of US visas to Russian journalists who were supposed to accompany Minister Lavrov on his official visit to New York to take part in the flagship events of the Russian Presidency of the UN Security Council. This was done despite the fact that Russian media representatives complied with all relevant terms and requirements, including a valid UN accreditation.
We consider this step as another manifestation of neglect of the international law by the United States. When denying access to UN events for Russian journalists, the US authorities once again demonstrate their true attitude to freedom of speech and availability of information. We count on the UN leadership and specialized international mechanisms to pay due attention to this egregious situation and take all necessary steps against the violator.
