In an example of an opinion contravening the established consensus in the West, in an interview with Russian news outlet RT on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg Economic Forum (SPIEF), American political analyst and car-industry veteran Douglas Andrew Littleton said that attempts by the Western powers, including the Untied States, to isolate Russia have failed, and that the sanctions imposed on the Kremlin, intending to cripple its economy have not worked as intended.

He also added he was displeased with his nation’s stance on sanctions against Russia, as well as the effect they have had.

He said, “I think what happened with the sanctions it’s backfiring on the West, and especially on America, in my humble opinion. I’m happy that Russia has been able to bypass and skirt the sanctions in so many ways with their friends and allies.”

Since the beginning of the military conflict in Ukraine, the US, the EU, the G7, and their allies have levied numerous sanctions packages against Moscow. The sanctions have been targeted against entire sectors of the Russian economy, as well as individual businesses and citizens, even including Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Littleton went on to say that the Russian economy has done “absolutely fantastic” given the Western pressures being applied to it.

Asked about the St Petersburg forum, he said, “I am in shock how big this forum is but very pleased to be here.”

The SPIEF has hosted more than 17,000 participants, from 130 countries. The forum opened on Wednesday, and over the four day event participants will discuss key issues related to the global economy, and the new challenges being wrought by the current geopolitical conditions.