A Russian delegation arrived in Istanbul on Thursday for a new round of talks with the U.S. aimed at resolving ongoing disputes regarding the operations of their respective embassies in Washington and Moscow.
The discussions, while limited in scope, will not address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine but are seen as a crucial indicator of both sides’ commitment to repairing relations and finding common ground on broader issues. The meetings will focus on diplomatic challenges, including staffing concerns and the treatment of embassy properties.
The talks come after a phone call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump on February 12, followed by a high-level diplomatic meeting in Saudi Arabia on February 18. Trump, who has been in office for just over five weeks, has shifted U.S. foreign policy, diverging from the approach of his predecessor, Joe Biden, who had sought to isolate and penalize Russia for its war in Ukraine.
While Trump has emphasized a desire to end the conflict swiftly, concerns persist among Ukraine and its European allies that such a resolution might prioritize U.S.-Russia interests, potentially sidelining their security concerns.
The U.S. State Department confirmed that the talks will be led by working-level officials and will exclude any discussions on Ukraine or broader political and security issues. Nevertheless, the talks will be closely watched as a gauge of Russia’s intent to engage constructively.
“Ahead of the talks, it is clear there are no political or security issues on the agenda. Ukraine is not on the agenda,” a State Department spokesperson stated. “The success or failure of these talks will be evident quickly – either issues will be resolved, or they won’t. We will soon see if Russia is truly ready to engage in good faith.”
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that the focus of the discussions will be on improving conditions for Russian diplomats in the U.S. and vice versa. This comes after tensions over staffing levels and embassy properties between the two nations.
“The outcome of these talks will show how quickly and effectively we can move forward,” Lavrov remarked.
While Trump has pushed for a ceasefire in Ukraine, Putin tempered expectations this week, suggesting that meaningful progress cannot be achieved without rebuilding trust between the U.S. and Russia.
