Russia's top security official and Deputy Head of State Nikolay Patrushev issued a clear warning to then-US President Barack Obama during his 2013 visit to the United States. In an interview with RIA Novosti, Patrushev recounted the meeting he held in Washington at the time as Secretary of the Russian Security Council.
Patrushev stated that he conveyed to Obama that Russia would not accept any interference in its internal affairs and would respond in kind if necessary. The Russian official said Obama reacted with genuine surprise, saying that 'democratic America could do this but Russia could not.'
Nikolay Patrushev served as Secretary of the Russian Security Council from 2008 to 2024. He made a working visit to the United States in May 2013. Patrushev, who also served as Director of the FSB from 1999 to 2008, turned 75 on July 11.
Patrushev, who holds the title of Hero of Russia, has been awarded many state honors, including being a full cavalier of the Order 'For Merit to the Fatherland'.
Maria Nica / Editor