Moscow criticizes US funding of Russian opposition groups

Russia has criticized the United States for continued funding of groups which Washington claims to support the spread of ‘democracy’ in the country.

Russian Prime Minister and president-elect Vladimir Putin has repeatedly accused the US of using its so-called pro-democracy program to fuel the protests that erupted after December’s parliamentary election in the country.

On Tuesday, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said Moscow continues to raise the issue with US officials but has not received a clear explanation about the ultimate aims of the funding.

“This activity is reaching a scale that is turning into a problem in our relations,” Ryabkov stated.

“We really are concerned that Washington is funding certain groups and movements in Russia,” he added.

Russian media has also criticized US Ambassador Michael McFaul’s meetings with members of the anti-Putin movement since his arrival in Moscow two months ago.

McFaul says the meetings are part of Washington’s approach to Russia which seeks to promote democracy issues in Russia alongside with mainlining close relations with Kremlin.