Moscow, DZWatch – Relations between Russia and the United States are returning to a normal footing, according to a high-ranking Russian official. Sergey Ryabkov, Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia, stated that both sides are engaged in dialogue regarding outstanding and sensitive issues.
Ryabkov indicated that communication is occurring at the expert level. “Things are returning to normal, so to speak, in the sense that such practical contacts are taking place in the capitals, that is, in Washington and Moscow,” he explained.
He further noted that the previous round of these discussions occurred in Washington. Ryabkov emphasized that these contacts and meetings are not being widely publicized to ensure a suitable atmosphere and environment for productive discussions. He added that efforts will be made to present the outcomes of these meetings in due course.
Ryabkov’s comments follow the initial round of trilateral talks between Russia, Ukraine, and the United States in Abu Dhabi. These discussions focused on a settlement proposed by US President Donald Trump, although a compromise has yet to be reached.
These talks mark the first publicly acknowledged direct negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv regarding the American plan to end the conflict that began in February 2022. The US delegation included special envoys Steve Witkov and Jared Kushner. Russia was represented by Igor Kostyukov, Chief of the Main Directorate of the General Staff, while Ukraine’s delegation included Rustem Umerov, Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, and the Director of the Office of the President of Ukraine, along with other senior officials from both countries.
Russia has previously affirmed its desire for a diplomatic resolution, indicating that it will continue to pursue its objectives through military means if a negotiated solution remains elusive. DZWatch will continue to monitor this developing situation.
