U.S., Russia Engage in Talks in Turkey Concentrating on Embassy Operations

U.S. and Russian delegates are engaged in a second round of talks in Istanbul, focusing on embassy operations rather than Ukraine. The meeting follows an initial discussion in Saudi Arabia and is characterized by the absence of Ukrainian representatives. Russian officials emphasize addressing systemic problems created by past U.S. actions affecting diplomatic relations, set against the backdrop of shifting U.S. foreign policy under President Trump.

A Russian delegation has commenced the second round of talks with U.S. representatives at the residence of the U.S. Consul General in Istanbul, as reported by the state news agency TASS on February 27. This follows the initial discussions held in Saudi Arabia on February 18, which aimed to advance a potential peace agreement concerning Ukraine. Notably, Ukrainian delegates were not included in these dialogues.

The forthcoming discussions will not encompass matters related to Ukraine, as confirmed by a spokesperson from the U.S. State Department. According to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, the focus will instead be on embassy operations and addressing systemic issues arising from the previous U.S. administration’s actions that complicated the functioning of the Russian Embassy.

The meeting is expected to occur behind closed doors, with Russia sending a delegation of high-ranking diplomats and experts, although specific names have not been disclosed. Lavrov remarked that the talks would address the repercussions of U.S. policies perceived as obstructive to Russian diplomatic activities.

Following the onset of full-scale conflict, the Biden administration has largely severed official contact with Russia, aiming to isolate President Vladimir Putin on the international front. Contrastingly, entry of Donald Trump into office signifies a significant pivot in U.S. foreign policy, exhibiting a more critical stance toward Ukraine and occasionally reflecting Russian perspectives—a stark departure from previous administration policies.

In summary, the second round of U.S.-Russia talks in Istanbul is set to focus exclusively on embassy operations, distancing itself from discussions on Ukraine. The Russian delegation aims to address issues stemming from perceived obstructions by the prior U.S. administration. The shift in U.S. policy under President Trump introduces new dynamics into the diplomatic relations between the two nations, contrasting with the current Biden administration’s approach.

Original Source: kyivindependent.com