The United States and Russia convened for closed-door diplomatic talks in Istanbul on Thursday to explore ways to restore regular operations at their respective embassies, amid strained bilateral relations and years of tit-for-tat restrictions.
Diplomats from both countries met at the Russian Consulate General in Istanbul for what sources described as a “marathon discussion” lasting nearly five and a half hours.
According to reports, the two sides focused primarily on easing visa procedures and diplomatic travel.
Discussions also covered the prospect of resuming direct air travel between the United States and Russia, while Moscow reiterated its demand for the return of diplomatic properties that it claims have been unlawfully seized.
Crucially, both sides clarified that the war in Ukraine was not part of the agenda. Russian diplomatic sources had earlier confirmed the scope of the talks was strictly bilateral. US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce also stated: “The meeting in Istanbul had nothing to do with Ukraine.”
An official statement on the US State Department’s website confirmed that the American delegation was led by Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Russia and Central Europe, Sonata Coulter, while the Russian side was represented by Ambassador Aleksandr Darchiyev.
“This meeting is the second round of consultations since Secretary Rubio’s agreement with his Russian counterpart; the first took place on February 27,” the statement said.
Officials from both sides continued what was described as a “constructive approach,” established during the earlier meeting. They exchanged notes to finalise a framework for stabilising banking access for their respective diplomatic missions.
The US, however, raised fresh concerns regarding Russia’s policy barring the employment of local staff. Washington has consistently flagged the issue as a major impediment to ensuring sustainable staffing levels at the US Embassy in Moscow.
“Deputy Assistant Secretary Coulter and Ambassador Darchiyev discussed holding a follow-up meeting on these issues in the near term, as needed, with the date, location, and representation to be determined,” the US State Department noted.
Though the talks did not signal a breakthrough, they marked a rare moment of measured engagement between Washington and Moscow, whose ties have deteriorated sharply in recent years.
With both governments confirming their commitment to continued discussions, observers say the Istanbul talks may serve as a potential stabilising factor, at least in the sphere of diplomatic logistics, amid heightened geopolitical tensions elsewhere.
Follow us
