Russian President Vladimir Putin has condemned the detention of a top executive of Russia’s aircraft-engine maker in Italy, which came at the request of the US on charges of espionage.

Axar.az reports citing Press TV that Alexander Korshunov, director for business development at Russia’s United Engine Corporation (UEC), was detained at an airport in Naples last week, after the US issued a warrant for his arrest, according to Russian Foreign Ministry.

Putin, who described the arrest as a “really bad practice,” said on Thursday that the move would further harm relations with the United States. “In this case, we’re dealing with attempts at a dishonest competition,” said the president.

He said that the Russian company had developed a new engine and concluded a contract with an Italian consulting firm.

“It’s a normal global practice. It’s open commercial work with European partners,” Putin added. The Russian president has repeatedly criticized Washington for requesting that Russian citizens be detained in third countries.