Kremlin confirms US-Russia talks set for Riyadh amid growing tensions

The Kremlin has confirmed that it has agreed with the United States on holding talks in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking a significant diplomatic development between the two nations.

Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov announced that he had already spoken by phone with the US delegation that will be part of the discussions in Saudi Arabia, Caliber.Az reports citing Russian media.

Ushakov clarified that the decision to meet in Riyadh was finalized during the phone call.

"Yes, we actually agreed on the option of meeting in Riyadh over the phone," Ushakov stated when asked about his recent conversation with his US counterpart. His remarks were broadcast on Russian Channel One.

In addition to Ushakov, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is expected to attend the US-Russian talks in Riyadh. Kirill Dmitriev, the CEO of the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), may also participate, focusing on economic discussions between the two countries.

This upcoming meeting between high-ranking Russian and US officials in Riyadh signals an important step toward potential dialogue between the two nations amidst ongoing international tensions.

To recall, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told the briefing that Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and presidential aide Yury Ushakov departed for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on the instructions of President Vladimir Putin, for crucial discussions with US representatives.

Peskov noted that the upcoming meeting will focus on efforts to restore and stabilize relations between Moscow and Washington.

The Kremlin spokesperson confirmed that Lavrov and Ushakov will provide urgent reports to President Putin from Riyadh.

In his remarks, Peskov explained that while the full report on the talks will be submitted in Moscow, the Russian delegation will have access to all communication channels to relay urgent updates if required.

"Of course, the full report will be presented in Moscow, but if any urgent reports are needed, all communication possibilities are available," Peskov said.

In addition to discussing the state of Russian-American relations, Peskov indicated that the delegations would also address preparations for potential talks on the Ukrainian settlement, as well as a possible meeting between Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump. The discussions are expected to cover a wide range of geopolitical topics.

By Vafa Guliyeva