Russia diplomats furious at note ban, says withdrawal limit hardly enough to pay for even a decent dinner

Russia has threatened to take “counter steps” against India and lodge a diplomatic protest against the country, as the October 8 decision of demonetisation by the Government of India has left Russian diplomats struggling for cash in Delhi.

According to a report by NDTV, Russian Government sources have said that Ambassador Alexander Kadakin is waiting for a reply to his letter to the Ministry of External Affairs on December 2. In his letter, Mr Kadakin has said the limit set by the government is “not even enough to pay for a decent dinner” and totally inadequate for operational expenses.

Moscow may summon the Indian envoy this week to protest against the Rs. 50,000 a week limit on withdrawals since the notes ban, said the sources.