Russia claims the US is messing with its elections

Turnabout is fair play when it comes to accusations of election meddling.

A Russian official on Saturday denounced US plans to punish Russia for alleged interference in the 2016 election — by saying the sanctions are an attempt to interfere with Russia’s presidential vote in March.

“We see this as yet another attempt to influence our internal situation, especially ahead of the presidential election,” Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said.

Washington is expected to apply the new sanctions to Russia in February.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to easily win a fourth term in the March 18 vote.

In Washington, special counsel Robert Mueller is investigating the Russian meddling and allegations that President Trump’s campaign colluded. Trump has repeatedly denied the charge.