Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed optimism about the possibility of improving relations with the United States, as representatives from both nations met in Istanbul for discussions aimed at normalizing the operations of their embassies.
During a televised address to the Federal Security Service, Putin praised the approach of US President Donald Trump, calling his administration “pragmatic and realistic.” He noted a mutual willingness to rebuild ties and address broader global security challenges.
The diplomatic talks, held at the US consul general’s residence, lasted over six hours and focused on resolving embassy-related issues, particularly the reciprocal restrictions that have resulted in diplomat expulsions and staffing limitations. A US State Department official clarified that the discussions would not include the Ukraine conflict but would instead center on practical matters such as visas and diplomatic banking. "We will soon see if Russia is serious about engaging in good faith," the official said.
Neither side disclosed the names of the officials involved, but Russian state news agency TASS reported that the delegation from Moscow included representatives from the foreign ministry.
Relations between Washington and Moscow had deteriorated to their lowest point since the Cold War, largely due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The previous US administration, under President Joe Biden, had strongly supported Ukraine with military aid and sanctions against Russia.
However, Trump’s presidency has marked a shift in US policy. Earlier this month, he held a phone call with Putin as part of efforts to rekindle relations. Shortly after, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Saudi Arabia, where they agreed to begin discussions on ending the Ukraine war—without Ukraine’s participation.
This development has raised concerns among Kyiv and European allies, who fear that Washington and Moscow could negotiate a ceasefire without their input, potentially compromising Ukraine’s security.
Trump discussed a possible Ukraine settlement with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the White House on Thursday, emphasizing his strong relationships with both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. On Friday, Zelenskyy is expected to sign an agreement granting the US access to Ukraine’s rare earth mineral deposits. Trump framed the deal as a way to recover US taxpayer money sent as aid to Ukraine and suggested it would act as a deterrent against future Russian aggression.
“I don’t think anyone will interfere if we have a strong presence there with workers involved in rare earths and other resources vital to our country,” Trump stated.
The US president reiterated his stance against providing security guarantees to Ukraine, arguing that the minerals deal itself would serve as sufficient protection. He also expressed confidence in Russia’s commitment to upholding any potential peace agreement.
“At this moment, there’s no deal, but we’re making significant progress. Russia has been acting responsibly,” Trump said.
“I believe that if we reach an agreement, it will hold,” he added.
