Putin takes a step back – then wonders why he isn’t applauded

Russian President Vladimir Putin welcomed the new US and EU ambassadors to Moscow in a bizarre ceremony. The Kremlin boss, who has enjoyed standing next to allies and civilians in recent weeks, kept his distance.

Putin stood on one side of the room, the diplomats and their escorts and other personnel had to position themselves on the other side of the room. Precautions due to Corona were reportedly the reason. This is surprising to say the least, because soon after he was sitting at a table with members of his security staff – and on the same day he hugged Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko during his visit to Moscow.

But at the end of his speech, there is an embarrassing scene for him as evidenced by video footage. Putin says the last words of his speech, then pauses, looking right, looking left, apparently expecting a handshake — or at least some kind of response.

But he received an iron silence from the 17 ambassadors present. US Ambassador Lynne Tracy followed the speech with a fixed gaze. Finally, he says that for reasons of hygiene, the ceremony must end now and he cannot speak to the diplomats in person. Then he resigns.

Earlier, in his welcome speech, the West was accused of a geopolitical confrontation with Russia. The EU staged this confrontation, abandoning its mission to “develop economic cooperation and integration on the European continent”, Putin said.

Used sources:

(t-online/dpa)