A Russian delegation arrived in Istanbul on February 27 for U.S.-Russia talks focused on embassy operations, marking the second round since the initial meeting in Saudi Arabia. The discussions, excluding Ukrainian representatives, aim to address issues stemming from the previous U.S. administration’s actions that hindered Russian embassy activities. The Biden administration has largely severed contacts with Russia since the war began, contrasting with Trump’s more critical approach toward Ukraine.
On February 27, a Russian delegation arrived at the U.S. Consul General’s residence in Istanbul for the second round of talks between the United States and Russia, according to the state news agency TASS. This follows initial discussions held in Saudi Arabia on February 18, aiming to facilitate a peace deal in Ukraine, although Ukrainian representatives were not included in either meeting.
The upcoming discussions will not take place regarding the Ukraine conflict, as confirmed by a U.S. State Department spokesperson. Instead, the focus will center on issues related to embassy operations. Russia’s Foreign Minister, Sergei Lavrov, stated that the talks will involve “high-level diplomats and experts” but did not disclose their identities.
The agenda will address “systemic problems” resulting from what Russia considers the previous U.S. administration’s actions, which created obstacles for the Russian Embassy’s operations. Lavrov indicated that past U.S. policies had forced Moscow to respond in kind, signaling ongoing tensions.
Since the onset of full-scale war, the Biden administration has largely severed official ties with Russia, aiming to isolate President Vladimir Putin internationally. In contrast, the recent election of President Trump has significantly shifted U.S. foreign policy, causing a more critical stance toward Ukraine and parallel narratives with Russia.
The second round of U.S.-Russia talks in Istanbul underscores the focus on embassy operations rather than the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. With elevated tensions resulting from past U.S. actions, the severity of diplomatic relations continues to shape the discussions. This meeting marks a pivotal moment in the evolving dynamics of U.S.-Russia relations post-war outbreak.
Original Source: kyivindependent.com
