U.S. and Russia Conduct Talks in Turkey, Focusing on Embassy Operations
A Russian delegation has begun the second round of talks with U.S. officials in Istanbul, focusing on embassy operations, without including discussions on Ukraine. The U.S. State Department emphasized that previous actions by the former administration led to necessary responses from Russia. High-level diplomats will attend this closed-door meeting, highlighting the continued diplomatic efforts despite strained relations.
On February 27, a Russian delegation commenced the second round of talks with U.S. representatives at the residence of the U.S. Consul General in Istanbul, according to the state news agency TASS. This follows an initial round of discussions held in Saudi Arabia on February 18, as U.S. President Donald Trump endeavors to mediate a peace agreement regarding Ukraine, although Ukrainian officials have not been included in the talks.
The U.S. State Department clarified that the forthcoming meeting will not address the situation in Ukraine. Instead, discussions will focus on embassy operations, as highlighted by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who indicated that the Russian delegation will comprise high-level diplomats and experts. Names of the attendees have not been disclosed, and the meeting will occur behind closed doors.
Lavrov elaborated on the agenda, stating that the dialogues would target systemic issues stemming from what he described as the illegal actions of the former U.S. administration, which purportedly created artificial barriers to the functioning of the Russian Embassy. This has led to retaliatory measures from Moscow. Additionally, following the full-scale conflict, the Biden administration has largely severed formal communications with Russia in a bid to isolate President Vladimir Putin globally.
The recent discussions between U.S. and Russian diplomats in Istanbul represent a crucial diplomatic effort aimed at addressing embassy operations amidst heightened tensions following the Ukraine conflict. While Ukrainian delegates remain excluded from the talks, the focus will be on resolving issues attributed to previous U.S. policies. This meeting underscores the ongoing complexities and shifts in U.S.-Russia relations under different administrations.
Original Source: kyivindependent.com