Moscow and Washington tight-lipped on results of six-hour talks — RT Russia & Former Soviet Union

Zakharova said the deterioration of relations was not Russia’s choice and that Moscow’s actions have been proportionate responses to Washington’s moves. Both delegations acknowledged the need to stabilize diplomatic operations and improve communication.

The discussions, which lasted over six hours, are expected to be the first in a series of expert consultations designed to resolve differences and build confidence between the two countries. Both delegations agreed to hold a follow-up meeting in the near future, with the date, location, and representation yet to be determined.

Under the administration of President Donald Trump, the US and Russia have begun gradually restoring contacts that were virtually non-existent for approximately three years under his predecessor, Joe Biden. A phone call between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin on February 12 was followed by a high-level Russia-US meeting in the Saudi capital, Riyadh.

Putin characterized the discussions as “a first step” toward normalization of ties, a sentiment later echoed by Trump. While neither head of state attended the talks – the first in three years – they were conducted by high-level officials, including Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Neither Ukrainian nor EU diplomats were invited to the meeting.

The latest talks in Istanbul, according to Zakharova, were the first in a planned series of expert consultations aimed at fostering confidence-building measures. She noted that both sides recognize the necessity of preventing further deterioration in diplomatic relations and working toward a more constructive dialogue.