Russian Ambassador to London: Johnson’s downfall was his ‘just reward’

Russia’s ambassador to Britain claimed today that Boris Johnson’s downfall was a “fair reward” for his pro-war, anti-Russian policies and his disregard for the economic needs of the British people.

“He focused too much on the geopolitical situation, in Ukraine,” Andrey Kelin told Reuters in an interview. “He ignored the country, the people, the state of the economy and this was the result,” he added. “Of course, we would prefer (for prime minister) someone who is not so competitive or belligerent,” he continued.

“The people are suffering from high prices, high taxes,” commented the 65-year-old diplomat, referring to Johnson’s “legacy”. “The government’s promises have not been fulfilled.”

In May inflation in Britain rose to 9.1%, the highest level in 40 years.

The Russian ambassador argued that Johnson had changed when he became prime minister: Johnson as foreign secretary under Theresa May and Johnson as prime minister were “two different people”, he said. He also commented that Johnson backed away from his original intention to work with Russia and made the “strategic mistake” of backing Ukraine with all his might. “I can’t say he was a friend of Russia,” Kelin said. But he added that he did not hope the change in leadership would affect British policy towards Russia or Ukraine.

Kelly also criticized Secretary of Defense Ben Wallace and Secretary of State Liz Truss, arguing that they do not understand the situation in Ukraine. “They’re not very familiar with Russian politics and don’t really understand the reasons for what’s going on,” he said.

Sending a message to whoever takes over after Johnson, the Russian diplomat said: “The country’s leader should focus not only on international affairs but on his country and, above all, on its economy.”

Source: AMPE