MOSCOW — In a recent round of diplomatic consultations, Russia proposed reinstating direct air links with the United States, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced on Friday. This proposal came during discussions aimed at normalizing operations of their embassies, which have faced disruption due to several expulsions of diplomats over recent years.
The meeting between Russian and U.S. officials took place in Istanbul on Thursday. It focused on discussing the normalization of diplomatic missions and tackling issues affecting embassy operations. The Russian Foreign Ministry described the dialogue as “substantive and businesslike,” highlighting that both sides agreed on mutual steps to facilitate the financing and functional capabilities of diplomatic missions.
Among the topics broached was the possibility of restoring direct air travel between Russia and the U.S., though no specific details or timeline were provided, and the U.S. has yet to comment on this suggestion. These discussions follow the suspension of air links by the U.S. and Western nations as part of sanctions following Russia’s military action in Ukraine in February 2022.
The Istanbul talks were the continuation of an agreement made during a conversation between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. This progression also follows prior diplomatic discussions in Saudi Arabia, where both nations expressed a commitment to mitigate tensions in Ukraine and reinforce diplomatic and economic relations. Restoring adequate embassy staffing was a key focus, considering the past expulsion of diplomats and administrative restrictions.
During Thursday’s Istanbul talks, the U.S. team voiced concerns about banking access, contracted services, and maintaining stable staffing levels at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow. The U.S. State Department confirmed that both sides identified initial steps needed to stabilize embassy operations and plan to continue discussions.
Sonata Coulter, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Russia and Central Europe, represented the U.S. side, while Alexander Darchiyev led the Russian delegation. Both parties agreed to reconvene soon to continue addressing these issues. Simultaneously, the Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed the U.S. had formally acknowledged Darchiyev’s appointment as Russia’s new ambassador to Washington, a role he takes over following Anatoly Antonov’s tenure.
Russian President Putin expressed optimism regarding the new U.S. administration, praising its pragmatic approach and expressing hope for the restoration of bilateral relations. He contrasted it favorably against prior administrations, noting a positive outlook for resolving strategic global issues.
