On April 10, 2025, delegations from the United States and Russia convened in Istanbul to discuss the normalization of their respective diplomatic missions. This meeting marks a significant step in addressing the strained relations that have persisted since the onset of the Ukraine conflict.
The discussions were led by Russia's newly appointed ambassador to Washington, Alexander Darchiev, and U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Sonata Coulter. The primary focus of these talks was to restore the operations of diplomatic missions, which have been hindered by mutual grievances, including challenges in obtaining diplomatic credentials, restrictions on diplomats' movements, and limitations on the use of diplomatic properties. Notably, both parties emphasized that the agenda was strictly centered on embassy operations and did not encompass broader bilateral issues or the situation in Ukraine.
The deterioration in U.S.-Russia diplomatic relations has led to significant reductions in embassy staffing and the expulsion of diplomats over the past decade. Both nations have faced obstacles such as difficulties in securing diplomatic credentials and restricted movements for diplomats. Additionally, Russia has encountered challenges in paying its diplomats due to Western sanctions, while U.S. diplomats have reported intimidation and constrained access in Russia.
Among the critical topics discussed was the status of diplomatic properties. Russia has consistently called for the return of six properties, including the Killenworth estate in New York and consulates in San Francisco and Seattle, which were seized by the U.S. between 2016 and 2018 amid allegations of Russian interference in the U.S. presidential election. In retaliation, Russia had previously seized U.S. diplomatic properties in the Moscow area.
Additionally, Russia proposed the resumption of direct flights between the two countries, which had been suspended since February 2022 following Russia's military actions in Ukraine. Ambassador Darchiev emphasized that restoring air travel would benefit both nations by enhancing business opportunities and facilitating travel for citizens.
State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce clarified that the talks were solely focused on embassy operations and did not aim to normalize the broader bilateral relationship. She underscored that Ukraine was "absolutely not on the agenda" and that broader normalization could only be considered once peace is achieved.
The Istanbul talks represent a cautious yet notable effort by both nations to address specific diplomatic challenges. While the discussions are limited in scope, they may serve as a foundation for future engagements aimed at resolving more complex issues. The international community will be closely monitoring the outcomes of these talks to gauge their impact on U.S.-Russia relations and broader geopolitical dynamics.