Fresh hope for diplomacy as US‑Russia talks yield progress
The American side has begun to better understand our position. The agreements we've reached include ensuring the prompt appointment of Russian and US ambassadors and addressing the issues created over the years by Joe Biden's administration, stated Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov after a meeting in Riyadh.
- The discussion was very beneficial. We not only listened but truly heard each other, and I have reason to believe that the American side has begun to better understand our position. We have once again detailed our stance using specific examples based on President Putin's multiple statements - said Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov following the US-Russian talks in Riyadh.
According to Lavrov, both sides agreed to remove barriers concerning diplomatic missions and to appoint US ambassadors to Russia and vice versa as soon as possible. He also discussed economic cooperation with the United States.
- The problems that Joe Biden's administration has created over many years for our diplomatic missions should be dealt with as swiftly as possible - said Lavrov in Riyadh.
- Today, we explained to our colleagues what President Putin has repeatedly emphasised: NATO's expansion, and the integration of Ukraine into the North Atlantic Alliance, pose a direct threat to the interests of the Russian Federation; a direct threat to our sovereignty - Lavrov reiterated to journalists.
Earlier at a press conference after talks regarding Ukraine, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that to end any conflict, concessions must be made by all parties. He highlighted the European Union, which has also imposed sanctions on Russia.
In the meantime, the head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund, Kirill Dmitriev - the second member of the Russian delegation in Riyadh alongside Lavrov - told Reuters after discussions with US representatives that it is too early to talk about compromises.
