Russia-US talks commence in Istanbul to address embassy issues

Negotiations between Russian and US representatives focusing on the challenges related to embassy operations have officially commenced at the residence of the US Consul General in Istanbul.

A minibus carrying the Russian delegation arrived at the venue, marking the start of the crucial discussions, Caliber.Az reports per Russian media.

The talks are expected to address a range of "irritants" in the bilateral relationship, with a particular emphasis on the functioning of the embassies in both Moscow and Washington.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov expressed cautious optimism about the meeting, stating that he hoped the discussions would provide clarity on the pace and effectiveness with which both nations could resolve the ongoing issues. Lavrov indicated that the outcome of the talks would be instrumental in determining how quickly and efficiently both sides could address the challenges facing their diplomatic missions.

Earlier reports indicated that the representatives from both the US and Russia would not be discussing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, nor any political or security matters during their talks in Istanbul. It was clarified that the focus of the discussions would be solely on issues related to the operations of their respective diplomatic missions.

The meeting follows a phone call between Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump on February 12, as well as a high-level diplomatic gathering in Saudi Arabia on February 18.

Just over five weeks into his presidency, Trump has shifted the approach of his predecessor, Joe Biden, who aimed to isolate and penalize Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. Ukraine and its European allies are concerned that Trump's push for a swift resolution to the conflict could lead to a deal with Moscow that excludes them and jeopardizes their security.

Following the US-Russia talks on February 18, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that both sides had agreed to restore embassy staffing levels. Later, Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed that Moscow and Washington had "agreed to resume the normal operation" of their diplomatic missions.

The US State Department clarified that talks, to be led by working-level officials, would not cover Ukraine or political and security matters. However, they are expected to be viewed as a key test of Moscow's intentions.

By Vafa Guliyeva