MOSCOW, December 14./TASS/. Washington’s statements about certain ‘isolation’ of Russia are ridiculous against the background of a second for this year visit by US Secretary of State John Kerry, the Russian Foreign Ministry said on Monday.

"We have been rather surprised by statements coming from Washington, including through an official representative of the White House, within the context of the upcoming arrival in Moscow of US Secretary of State John Kerry," the commentary said. "Allegations about certain ‘isolation’ of Russia on the international arena look especially absurd," it continued.

"Taking into consideration the fact that the US secretary of state goes to our country for the second time in the past seven months, such propaganda approaches are simply ridiculous," it said, stressing that "like in May, the visit was organized at an urgent request of the American side".

Russia "is open for constructive partnership, but it is possible only on the principles of equality and mutual respect," it continued. "Washington can pretend to itself that sanctions against us are ‘efficient’ as long as it likes," the statement said.

"In determining spheres for joint with the US activity, we continue to be guided solely by own interests, including the task of strengthening our own and international security," it said.