Nine European Nations Condemn IMF's Plan to Resume Russian Consultations

European finance ministers argue that engaging with Russia undermines IMF's credibility amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The IMF plans to resume annual economic consultations with Russia, starting with online meetings on September 16 and a delegation visit to Moscow until October 1.
Finance ministers from Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Finland, Sweden, Iceland, Denmark, Norway, and Poland have sent a letter expressing strong dissatisfaction with the IMF's decision.
Critics argue that any economic assessment by the IMF could be used by Russia for propaganda and would likely be based on censored or inaccurate data.
The protesting nations warn that resuming consultations with Russia could diminish donor countries' willingness to support Ukraine through IMF initiatives.
Despite calls to suspend Russia from the IMF, the organization states it is fulfilling its mutual obligations to conduct Article IV consultations with member countries.