US, Russian Foreign Ministers Hold First Call Under Biden Administration
Washington, DC – US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov held their first phone call since the Biden administration took office on January 20th.
Regular Contact and Summit Preparations
According to a statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry, the two officials agreed to establish regular communication channels, including preparations for a future high-level Russian-American summit. They also agreed to create a mechanism to address the accumulated issues between the two countries.
Saudi Arabia Discussions on Ukraine War
US news outlet Fox News reported that direct talks between Russia and the US on ending the war in Ukraine are scheduled for the upcoming week in Saudi Arabia. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, and Middle East Special Envoy Steve Witkoff will represent the US at the talks. The Russian delegation has not yet been announced.
Moscow’s Initiative and Shared Willingness
Russia’s Foreign Ministry stated that the phone call was initiated by Washington. Both sides expressed their readiness to improve strained relations.
Topics of Discussion
In addition to the war in Ukraine, the ministers discussed the situation in the Middle East and potential improvements in bilateral trade relations.
US Confirms Call and Trump’s Commitment
The US State Department confirmed the conversation, noting that it followed a phone call between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Rubio reiterated Trump’s determination to find a solution to the conflict in Ukraine.
Trump-Putin Conversations and Personal Meeting
President Trump had previously spoken with President Putin mid-week about the possibility of ending Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine. The two leaders agreed to initiate negotiations and schedule an in-person meeting.
Historical Context and Future Implications
This call between Secretary Rubio and Minister Lavrov marks a significant step in diplomatic engagement between the US and Russia under the Biden administration. It demonstrates a shared desire to address tensions and resolve the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. The upcoming talks in Saudi Arabia will be closely watched for any progress towards a peaceful settlement.
