The Russian and US delegations will meet again in Istanbul on April 10. Kremlin Spokesperson Peskov stated, “Our side will be represented at the level of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.”

Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov announced that the Russian side will be represented at the level of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the negotiations scheduled to take place with the US in Istanbul on April 10. Peskov discussed current issues with journalists in the capital Moscow. Responding to a question about the meetings set to take place in Istanbul on April 10 between the Russian and US delegations, Peskov said, “Our side will be represented at the level of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Ministry will provide the necessary information.” Evaluating the probability of reinstating the New START agreement between Russia and the US, Peskov emphasized the need to first improve bilateral relations with the US, stating, “Thinking about negotiations on strategic stability is difficult for now. These types of negotiations require reaching a certain level of bilateral relations and mutual trust.” Peskov also stressed the consideration of other countries’ nuclear arsenals in negotiations on arms control with the US.

THEY HAD COME TO ISTANBUL IN FEBRUARY

The Russian and US delegations had a meeting at the expert level in Istanbul on February 27. The Russian Foreign Ministry announced that the normalization of the operations of diplomatic missions of both countries was discussed during the meetings. It was announced during the Istanbul meeting that joint steps would be taken to ensure uninterrupted financing of diplomatic missions and create suitable conditions for diplomats to carry out their duties. The Ministry reported that an agrément (approval letter) was issued by Washington for the ambassador they appointed to the US during the meeting.