At a press conference, following talks with his Finnish counterpart, Erkki Tuomioja, Lavrov also said that laws similar to those under which the three members of Pussy Riot were convicted are in force in other countries.

"The answer to questions about the issue is unambiguous: The judiciary acts independently. Opinions differ, but the actions of a court cannot be interfered with," said the Russian Foreign Minister.

Lavrov met Monday with top Finnish political leaders in Helsinki. He held talks with President Sauli Niinistö during the morning, followed by meetings with Foreign Minister Erkki Tuomioja and Prime Minister Jyrki Katainen.

The leaders discussed EU-Russian relations, as well as current issues in foreign and security policy. Bilateral relations reportedly dominated the day's discussions. Lavrov stressed that relations between the two neighbours are good, including brisk trade and high levels of tourism.

Lavrov also proposed the creation of a special joint Russian-Finnish board to deal with child custody cases that involve citizens of both countries.