The United States and Russia announced measurable progress during their second round of talks in Istanbul this week, focusing on restoring essential functions to their respective diplomatic missions. Both sides highlighted agreements on financial logistics and staff mobility, signaling a cautious thaw in strained bilateral relations.
Banking and Property Negotiations
Key outcomes include commitments to secure banking services for diplomatic operations and a roadmap to address contested properties. Russia emphasized the return of six diplomatic premises in the U.S., while delegations formalized procedures to ensure contributions to UN budgets proceed unimpeded.
Visa Easing and Air Travel
Discussions touched on simplifying visa protocols for diplomatic staff and resuming direct flights between the two nations. While no timeline was set, Russian representatives pushed for expedited implementation to support mission operations.
Persistent Challenges
The U.S. State Department acknowledged progress but raised ongoing concerns about Russia\'s restrictions on hiring local embassy staff. Both sides stressed the discussions remained focused on technical matters, with Ukraine explicitly excluded from the agenda.
The negotiations follow years of reciprocal diplomat expulsions that hobbled consular services. While timelines for future meetings remain unclear, observers note the Istanbul talks mark the most substantive engagement since February.
