Putin Warns Russian Business Against Relying on Complete Free Trade Amid Potential Easing of Western Sanctions

In Moscow on March 18, President Vladimir Putin cautioned Russian business leaders against expecting a full restoration of free trade or capital movement if Western sanctions on Russia are lifted. Putin emphasized to a group of Russian businessmen that "Our competitors will always want to weaken and contain us." He further warned that even if one side makes concessions, new methods of causing problems would swiftly arise.