US-Russia Relations Remain Stalled Despite Limited Progress on ”Irritants“
Recent consultations between the US and Russia have yielded some limited improvements in the practical functioning of diplomatic missions, but a broader normalization of relations remains blocked by basic disagreements, according to Alexander Darchiev, Russia’s Ambassador-at-large.
The discussions, focused on addressing “irritants” in the bilateral relationship, have resulted in some easing of restrictions. As a notable example, the process for Russian diplomatic staff traveling outside the 25-mile movement zone has been streamlined. Previously requiring permission for each instance, travel now only necessitates approval outside of pre-agreed quotas. Similar relaxations have been introduced for buisness and tourism travel.
Visa issuance for Russian citizens, previously handled directly by the US embassy in moscow but curtailed due to staffing shortages, is now limited to the consular sections of US embassies in Astana and Warsaw, requiring a Schengen visa for access. However,Darchiev noted a slight improvement in the processing of diplomatic and service visas,a crucial advancement given the reciprocal expulsions of diplomatic personnel initiated by Washington and Moscow,leading to reduced staffing levels on both sides. Despite the smaller teams, Russian consular offices maintain their existing operational tempo.
A key agreement reached during the consultations was a commitment to ensure uninterrupted banking services for diplomatic missions, with both sides agreeing to exempt financial transactions with their respective capitals from sanctions regimes - a point particularly relevant to the United States.
Despite these incremental gains, progress on addressing the “root causes” of the strained relationship has stalled. The US State Department has refused to discuss the return of six properties effectively confiscated from the Russian federation, now treated as private property. US special services are reportedly denying access to these properties to the Russian ambassador and diplomats. Moreover, the US has linked any discussion regarding the resumption of direct air links – suspended following the start of the special military operation – to a resolution in Ukraine that aligns with US interests.
Responding to a question about the future of the dialog, Darchiev stated Russia remains committed to pursuing discussions. He urged the US State Department negotiating team to broaden the scope of the “irritants” dialogue, moving beyond visa issues and practical operational concerns to address the broader restoration of normal relations.
Darchiev emphasized the need to return to the situation as it existed in December 2016, before what he described as a “diplomatic war” initiated by the Obama administration following Hillary Clinton’s defeat in the presidential election. He stated that Russia is currently dealing with the consequences of these actions and will continue to work towards a resolution.
(This report is based on an interview originally published by Kommersant and translated/edited by RT.)
