Russian ambassador-at-large Ilya Rogachev stated on June 16, 2026, that Western nations arbitrarily interpret international law to advance their own geopolitical agenda. He made the remarks during a BRICS seminar on international legal cooperation, as reported by RT.
Rogachev, who serves as Russia's point person for BRICS and G20 affairs, argued that the West selectively applies legal norms, citing examples such as sanctions and military interventions that he claimed violate the UN Charter. He did not provide specific evidence during the seminar.
The statement comes amid ongoing tensions between Russia and Western countries over the conflict in Ukraine, which began in February 2022. Russia has previously accused the West of double standards in international law, particularly regarding sovereignty and territorial integrity.
BRICS, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has expanded its focus on reforming global governance structures. The seminar in question was part of broader discussions on legal frameworks within the bloc.
