Deputy FM: US signals readiness for mutually respectful dialogue with Russia

Contacts between Moscow and Washington have opened the possibility of moving from direct confrontation to a non-confrontational approach in relations between Russia and the United States, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov stated on March 27.

He made the statement at the international conference "Russia and India: Toward a New Agenda for Bilateral Relations", Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

"From Washington, with the change of administration, we are receiving signals of readiness for mutually respectful dialogue. Important telephone talks between [Russian President Vladimir] Putin and [former US President Donald] Trump have taken place, and contacts between our representatives at different levels have been held. This communication has opened a window of opportunity to move from frontal confrontation to non-confrontational coexistence. This can only be welcomed," Ryabkov said. 

Ryabkov emphasized that "Russia has never shied away from dialogue, although it has never imposed on it." However, he cautioned that it remains "premature to make far-reaching predictions," as the recent contacts are only "the beginning of a long and difficult process to improve relations."

The deputy foreign minister underscored that Russia's relations with the United States and the West in general should be built "strictly on the basis of reciprocity while respecting each other's national interests."

On March 25, the US, Russia, and Ukraine reached an agreement during a meeting in Riyadh to ensure safe navigation in the Black Sea, prevent the use of force, and prohibit the use of commercial vessels for military purposes, according to the White House press service.

The three countries also agreed to develop a mechanism to prevent strikes on energy infrastructure in Russia and Ukraine. The statement noted that the parties "welcomed the good intentions of third countries to support the implementation of energy and maritime agreements."

As part of the discussions, Washington pledged to assist Russia in "restoring access to the global market for agricultural and fertilizer exports, reducing marine insurance costs, and expanding access to ports and payment systems for such transactions." Additionally, during talks with the Ukrainian delegation, US representatives expressed readiness to facilitate the exchange of prisoners of war, detainees, and the return of displaced children.

According to the White House, Washington, Moscow, and Kyiv "will continue to work to achieve a lasting and durable peace." Trump emphasized that a necessary step in this process is "stopping the killing on both sides," with the US committed to facilitating negotiations.

The expert-level talks took place in Riyadh from March 23 to 25. The Kremlin did not disclose details of the discussions, but Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov highlighted safe navigation in the Black Sea as a key topic. He also reiterated Russia's position in favor of resuming the Black Sea grain initiative "in a form more acceptable to all."

Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov confirmed that agreements on shipping arrangements were reached.

By Tamilla Hasanova