The United States and Russia have reported significant progress towards normalizing their diplomatic relations after concluding a second round of talks in Istanbul on Thursday. The discussions aimed at easing tensions and restoring the functionality of their respective diplomatic missions.
The delegations were led by Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Russia and Central Europe Sonata Coulter and Russia’s new ambassador to Washington, Alexander Darchiev. Building on initial talks that took place in February, this meeting lasted approximately five hours at the Russian consulate in Istanbul.
The Russian consulate released a statement highlighting advancements made in ensuring banking and financial services for both Russian and U.S. diplomatic missions. “These commitments are designed to facilitate unimpeded banking and financial services for Russian and American diplomatic missions, in addition to ensuring the fulfillment of the Russian Federation’s contributions to the budgets of the UN and other international organizations,” the statement read.
Both sides exchanged diplomatic notes to formalize these agreements and discussed developing a roadmap for the return of six diplomatic properties lawfully owned by Russia but confiscated by U.S. authorities. Additionally, they explored ways to ease visa processing and travel regulations for diplomatic staff within the host countries. The Russian delegation emphasized the importance of resuming direct air flights between the two nations.
The U.S. State Department described the talks as continuing “the constructive approach” established in the previous meeting. However, they expressed ongoing concerns about a Russian policy that prohibits the employment of local staff at diplomatic missions.
While the situation in Ukraine was not on the agenda, as confirmed by U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce earlier in the week, the discussions focused on bilateral issues affecting diplomatic operations.
In recent years, both Washington and Moscow have expelled numerous diplomats, hindering the effectiveness of their diplomatic missions. The progress reported from these talks signals a potential thaw in relations and a mutual interest in stabilizing diplomatic channels.
The timing for the next round of talks is currently being coordinated, indicating that both countries are committed to continuing dialogue.
