Diplomatic Engagement in Istanbul

the united States and Russia convened in Istanbul on Thursday, engaging in discussions aimed at normalizing the operations of their respective diplomatic missions. These talks represent a continuation of initial engagements held in February, amidst heightened tensions stemming from the conflict in Ukraine. The ongoing war has significantly strained relations between Moscow and the West, reaching levels unseen since the Cold War era.The meeting was led by Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Russia and Central europe Sonata Coulter and Russia’s new ambassador to washington, Alexander Darchiev.

The U.S. delegation spent approximately six hours at the Russian consulate in central Istanbul. According to a State department spokesperson, the agenda did not include discussions about Ukraine. The State Department characterized thursday’s discussions as continuing the constructive approach established during the February 27 meeting.

Key Obstacles: Staffing and Local Employment

A primary point of contention for the United states remains Russia’s policy restricting the employment of local staff at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow. The State Department emphasized the critical nature of this issue:

The United States reiterated its concerns about the Russian Federation’s policy prohibiting the employment of local staff.
U.S. State Department

According to the State Department, this restriction poses a significant impediment to maintaining stable and sustainable staffing levels at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow. The ability to employ local staff is crucial for the efficient functioning of diplomatic missions, providing essential support and expertise.

Russian Perspective: Progress and Future Cooperation

From the Russian perspective, the Istanbul talks yielded positive results. Russia’s ambassador to the United states, Alexander Darchiev, indicated that progress had been made toward normalizing diplomatic missions. TASS, the Russian state news agency, quoted Darchiev:

The latest round of bilateral expert consultations on normalizing the work of the diplomatic missions of Russia and the United States took place in a positive atmosphere and allowed us to move forward in resolving this task set by the presidents of the two countries.
Alexander Darchiev, Russian Ambassador to the United States

Darchiev also highlighted the importance of resuming direct flights between russia and the United States to facilitate business ties and interpersonal connections. This proposal aligns with broader efforts to foster cooperation despite existing political challenges.

Moscow’s priorities and Future Consultations

Russia’s Foreign Ministry conveyed its position via a Telegram post, emphasizing the need for prompt action on proposed solutions. The ministry stated that its priority is to promptly work through the proposals that have been put forward. The ministry further articulated the need for mutually agreeable solutions:

The main principle is to work out mutually agreeable solutions for the next round of consultations, with the time frame to be agreed.
Russia’s Foreign Ministry

This statement underscores Russia’s commitment to continued dialog and negotiation to resolve outstanding issues.

Background: A Complex Relationship

The focus on restoring diplomatic functionality arises from years of escalating disputes,mutual accusations of intimidation,and the freezing of diplomatic properties. Both Moscow and Washington have voiced concerns about the difficulties in obtaining credentials for their diplomats, which severely hampers embassy operations.These challenges are compounded by Western restrictions that, according to Russia, make it difficult to even pay diplomats. U.S. diplomats have also reported restrictions on their movements within Russia, and both sides have alleged instances of intimidation.

Financial Stability and Diplomatic Banking

A significant step toward stabilizing diplomatic operations involves ensuring the stability of banking services. The State Department noted:

The U.S. and russian delegations exchanged notes to finalize an understanding to ensure the stability of diplomatic banking for Russian and U.S. bilateral missions.
U.S. State department

This understanding aims to facilitate financial transactions necessary for the day-to-day functioning of diplomatic missions. the delegations also discussed the possibility of a follow-up meeting to address these issues further, indicating a commitment to ongoing dialogue.

diplomatic properties Under Restriction

Among the unresolved issues are diplomatic properties.Washington has placed restrictions on six Russian properties, including:

• The Killenworth estate on Long Island
• The Pioneer Point “dacha” in Maryland
• The Russian consulates in san Francisco and Seattle
• The trade missions in Washington and new York

The restrictions on these properties further complicate the already strained diplomatic relations between the two countries.