Russian Foreign Ministry Outraged by Cannabis Legalization in Malta

The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed “deep concern” over the news that Malta has passed a law allowing residents to freely grow and use cannabis. According to the Ministry, this law violates international agreements and sets a precedent that “encourages drug use” among young people.

“We see the decision of the Maltese authorities as yet another example of the Western-promoted concept of a ‘rules-based order’ and a deliberate rejection of the fundamental principles of international law. We consider this approach unacceptable,” the Ministry’s statement said.

The Ministry also noted that promoting full legalization during the ongoing coronavirus crisis is dangerous, as “the risks of drug trafficking and the scale of drug use in our region are significantly increasing, while the capabilities of competent authorities to address these problems are limited.”

At the same time, the Ministry acknowledged that international law does allow for the use of cannabis for medical purposes.

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