Russian delegation and Trump team have already held meetings in Riyadh – CNN
Kirill Dmitriev. Photo: Kremlin website
In Saudi Arabia, Russian representatives have already met with US President Donald Trump's team representatives: the official meeting of the parties is scheduled for Tuesday, February 18.
A member of the Russian delegation, Kirill Dmitriev, reported this to the American television and radio company CNN, which spoke with him.
"All I can say is that they [Trump's representatives – ed.] know how to solve problems. And I think that President Trump is an excellent problem solver," the Russian official emphasized.
According to Dmitriev, the American negotiators have not yet made direct promises to their Russian colleagues.
"I think the promise is this: let's have a dialogue, let's find the best solution for our countries, for other countries, for the world community," the Russian representative said.
The Russian official also denied that Russia primarily seeks to ease sanctions imposed against it and claims that the American and Russian economies can benefit from working together.
"I think it is essential to build bridges. I think the relationship between the United States and Russia is significant for the world," Dmitriev said.
CNN, citing sources, writes that the Kremlin has suggested that Dmitriev focus on restoring economic ties between the United States and Russia. At the same time, both sides are trying to reach a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine.
For reference:
According to the Axios publication, representatives of Russia and the United States will meet on February 18.
As noted, the American delegation will include:
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio,
- White House National Security Advisor Mike Waltz,
- Ambassador to the Middle East Steve Witkoff.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has already arrived in Saudi Arabia on February 17.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Vladimir Putin's aide Yuri Ushakov flew from the Russian Federation to Riyadh to meet with representatives of the United States.
Ukraine was not invited to the talks in Saudi Arabia, but the United States stated that it intends to hold a bilateral meeting with Russia, then a bilateral meeting with Ukraine, and then joint talks.
The plans of the US presidential administration include reaching an agreement on a ceasefire in Ukraine by Easter, which will be celebrated on April 20.
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