Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman, Maria Zakharova, stressed that the “developments in Sri Lanka are its internal affair.”

The statement comes in response to an escalating political crisis. Acting President, Ranil Wickremesinghe, imposed a state of emergency and curfew in an attempt to curtail protests. Wickremesinghe has also ordered the military to do whatever is necessary to restore order.

Numerous countries have expressed concern regarding recent developments, emphasizing the importance of respecting human rights and the rule of law.

Zakharova stated that “the developments in Sri Lanka are its internal affair and the political process in that country, which we regard as friendly, will develop further in keeping with its constitution and effective laws.”

She continued “we believe the situation will return to normal before long and that the new Sri Lankan authorities will take the necessary measures to ride out the crisis in the national economy.”

In the past few years, Sri Lanka has deepened its ties with Russia.

Throughout the economic crisis, Sri Lanka has been relying on Russian oil imports.

While numerous countries have condemned Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, Sri Lanka announced that it would not take sides in the conflict.

Previously, Russia has also come to Sri Lanka’s defence when questioned about its human rights abuses.

In March of this year the United Nations Human Rights Council discussed accountability processes for mass atrocities on the island. When several member states expressed concerns for the lack of progress on accountability, Russia countered these concerns. Russia claimed that Sri Lanka had made “considerable progress” on human rights and reconciliation.