Russia and United States to Discuss Diplomatic Missions in Istanbul

On April 10, 2025, Russia and the United States will hold talks in Istanbul focused on restoring and enhancing their diplomatic missions. The discussions, led by Russia’s new ambassador to Washington, Alexander Darchiev, and U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Sonata Coulter, come amid years of operational difficulties including delays in credential processing, restricted staff movements, and challenges related to compensation and mutual allegations of intimidation.

Additional issues on the agenda include the potential resumption of direct flights—suspended since February 2022—and the return of certain diplomatic properties, which have been a point of contention in past disputes. Despite these expanded topics, U.S. officials have emphasized that normalization of bilateral operations will remain contingent on a peaceful resolution in Ukraine, with no discussions on the conflict taking place during these talks.