Russia's Permanent Representative to the European Union Vladimir Chizhov stated that he expects EU sanctions against Russia to be lifted before the United Kingdom leaves the bloc.

Axar.az reports citing Sputnik.

BRUSSELS (Sputnik) — Russia's Permanent Representative to the European Union Vladimir Chizhov told Sputnik on Thursday he expected the anti-Russia sanctions imposed by the European Union to be lifted before Brexit is officially negotiated and completed.

"One can assume a hypothetical situation when, after leaving the European Union, the United Kingdom decides to refuse to participate in the EU sanctions. But I still hope that the issue of sanctions will resolve itself before the UK withdrawal from the European Union," Chizhov said.

The envoy added that the Brexit negotiations and their consequences would affect Russia, albeit indirectly, as London would no longer be bound by the provisions of Moscow-Brussels joint documents, including the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, and all subsequent decisions, including sanctions.