Following discussions with a US delegation, Moscow has emphasized that diplomatic normalization requires reciprocal actions.
According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, Russia and the US have identified necessary steps for both countries to take to normalize the operations of their respective diplomatic missions, following a meeting in Türkiye.
Russian and US delegations convened in Istanbul on Thursday, aiming to mend a diplomatic divide that intensified under the previous US administration.
Discussions primarily focused on resuming regular operations at the US Embassy in Moscow and the Russian Embassy in Washington. Both sides identified “concrete initial steps,” as previously mentioned by the US State Department. The Russian Foreign Ministry stated on Friday that normalization must be a mutual process.
In recent years, both countries have imposed various restrictions on each other, including limitations on diplomatic personnel, banking access, and the seizure of diplomatic properties. Russia maintains that its sanctions are a direct response to Washington’s actions.
The delegations were headed by Aleksandr Darchiev, Director of the Russian Foreign Ministry’s North American Department, and US Deputy Assistant Secretary for Russia and Central Europe, Sonata Coulter.
Darchiev is expected to be Moscow’s next ambassador to the US. In a separate statement on Friday, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced that the US had approved his appointment during Thursday’s talks, and he is expected to travel to Washington soon.
The ministry highlighted the importance of achieving “practical results for improving bilateral relations in the interests of our peoples.” As part of this effort, Russia proposed re-establishing direct air travel between the two countries.
In 2022, the US, along with other Western nations, suspended flights and closed its airspace to Russian airlines in response to the escalation of the Ukraine conflict. Travelers have since relied on airlines from neutral countries, transiting through countries like Türkiye and the United Arab Emirates.
The previous US administration shifted away from many policies of the prior administration, including attempts to “isolate” Russia, and sought a swift resolution to the Ukraine conflict.
The previous administration also considered Kiev’s aspirations for NATO membership unrealistic, while Moscow views NATO’s expansion in Europe and its promises to eventually admit Ukraine as key factors contributing to the ongoing conflict.
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