A Russian delegation is engaging in talks with U.S. officials in Istanbul to discuss embassy operations, following a previous meeting in Saudi Arabia. Notably, discussions will not cover the Ukraine conflict, as emphasized by U.S. officials. Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov mentioned the aim to resolve issues stemming from previous U.S. diplomatic practices. The Biden administration seeks to limit formal interactions with Russia amid ongoing tensions.
On February 27, a Russian delegation arrived at the U.S. Consul General’s residence in Istanbul to commence the second round of discussions between Russian and U.S. representatives, as reported by the state news agency TASS. Earlier, on February 18, the delegations had convened for their inaugural meeting in Saudi Arabia, amid U.S. President Donald Trump’s efforts to broker a peace agreement concerning Ukraine. Notably, Ukrainian representatives were not included in either meeting.
The upcoming discussions will intentionally exclude topics related to Ukraine, as clarified by a spokesperson from the U.S. State Department. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov indicated that these talks would concentrate on matters pertaining to the operations of the Russian Embassy in the United States. The meetings are set to occur behind closed doors, with Lavrov confirming that the Russian team will comprise “high-level diplomats and experts,” though specific identities were not disclosed.
Lavrov highlighted that the discussions will tackle systemic issues arising from what he termed the “illegal activities” of the former U.S. administration, which purportedly created obstacles for the Russian Embassy’s functions. These circumstances have led the Russian government to “respond in kind.” Since the full-scale conflict commenced, the Biden administration has severed most formal communications with Russia in a bid to isolate President Vladimir Putin on the world stage. Trump’s return to the presidency signals a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, with an increasingly critical stance towards Ukraine and some echoes of Russian perspectives.
In summary, the second round of Russian-U.S. talks occurring in Turkey emphasizes a focus on embassy operations rather than the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. With rising tensions between the two nations, the meetings aim to address past grievances stemming from the actions of the previous U.S. administration. The Biden administration’s strategy continues to evolve, reflecting a more isolated approach towards Russia in light of recent events.
Original Source: kyivindependent.com
