Upcoming U.S.-Russia Diplomatic Talks Expected to Address Key Issues, Says Deputy Foreign Minister

Russian and American officials may convene “very soon” for further discussions aimed at reinstating the operations of their diplomatic missions, according to Sergei Ryabkov, Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, speaking on Tuesday.

Officials from both nations previously met in Istanbul on February 27 and April 10 for embassy-related discussions, following a meeting between Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Saudi Arabia on February 18.

«The next round of bilateral talks concerning various issues is approaching. While it’s premature to specify a date, I am optimistic that these discussions will occur shortly,» Ryabkov told the Interfax news agency.

He noted that Moscow would be looking for “more definitive responses” regarding its proposal to resume direct flights between Russia and the U.S., as well as for the return of six Russian-owned properties that were confiscated between 2016 and 2018 due to alleged election interference.

The idea of reinstating direct flights was first introduced by Russia during discussions with U.S. officials in Istanbul on February 27, as the newly incoming Trump administration aimed to improve relations with Moscow.

Reportedly, U.S. officials indicated that the resumption of direct air travel with Russia would depend on advancements towards a ceasefire in Ukraine, as stated by the Kremlin.

On Tuesday, Ryabkov also mentioned that the upcoming round of negotiations with the U.S. would cover broader international matters.

«This encompasses significant issues including the Middle East and dialogue regarding the Iranian nuclear program,» he informed reporters.

Following a call with President Vladimir Putin last Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump remarked that the Russian leader had expressed a willingness to “participate” in discussions about Iran’s nuclear agenda. The Kremlin added that Putin was prepared to “assist in resolving” the impasse after Trump accused Iran of being slow to respond to a proposed deal.

Ryabkov stated: “We receive instructions after each phone conversation in the form of direct directives.”

Later, on Tuesday, Alexander Darchiyev, Russia’s Ambassador to the United States, informed TASS that the next round of discussions between the two nations would be held in Moscow.

There was no immediate comment from Washington regarding the anticipated talks.