"I never followed up on that suggestion."
OK... And why? And do you regret not doing so?
That seems like an awkward way to end the article, as if it holds some big meaning, when it really is pretty nonsensical. It sound like lazy journalism to not, you know, check the facts of one side of a story. Also, it sounds reasonable that a Russian with a journalist contact would be interested in doing what they can to avoid potential undue sanctions against the people of their country. Their suggestion to you, as you've presented it, is entirely innocent and fair, and if the same was written of a USA citizen, everyone would then ask you "what's you're point?"
But I take it that their sensible question is supposed to trigger some fanatical reactions because they are a Russian?
Honestly, your story sounds like a nothing burger being presented as though it were a big revelation burger. Guess I clicked the bait.