[smith288]

This is akin to "I dont bet when I know im right..."

[The_Victor]

Russia possesses the technology and skills to launch a manned mission to Mars but "the time is not right" for such a venture

i.e. the checkbook is already in the red.

[MDspinboyredux]

"We have all the technology and scientific skills needed (for a flight to Mars), but from the rational point of view the time is not right for such a programme," Deputy Prime Minister Boris Alyoshin told the Interfax news agency.

Yeah, while your at it, stick it in an envelope and mail it to about 20 years ago...when you actually HAD a space program.

[DeepDish]

"We have all the technology and scientific skills needed (for a flight to Mars), but from the rational point of view the time is not right for such a programme," Deputy Prime Minister Boris Alyoshin told the Interfax news agency.

Nice recipe Ivan, but you left out the testicles. Which is why you are talking to a french news outlet, They've never heard of testicles either.

[claptrap]

The Russians are waiting until after they and their "Red"
Chinese friends have done the U.S in to do any space exploration.

[RightWhale]

This program could be of interest to us, but we need to receive specific proposals first.

If a country wants in, they would be welcome. If a country needs to be courted, they are out.