Russia asked the US to lift some sanctions: what Trump was offered in Istanbul

Russia wants Donald Trump's administration to lift some of the previously imposed sanctions, namely to resume direct flights between the two countries. This was stated by representatives of the Russian delegation at the talks with the United States that took place on February 27 in Istanbul.

This was reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the aggressor country. "In a specific plan, the American side was asked to consider the possibility of resuming direct flights," the communiqué said.

The Russian Foreign Ministry added that the meeting also "substantively" discussed "ways to overcome numerous" irritants inherited from previous American administrations. They also agreed on "joint steps" to ensure unimpeded funding for diplomatic missions in 2016-2018.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs assures that the discussions were held in a "meaningful and businesslike manner." As a result, the parties agreed to "continue the dialogue through this channel."

Earlier, the US State Department announced similar results of the talks. In particular, plans for "concrete initial steps to stabilize the activities of bilateral diplomatic missions" were confirmed, including "ensuring a stable number of staff at the US Embassy in Moscow." However, the U.S. Department of State did not say anything about the possibility of resuming direct flights.

It should be noted that the United States closed its airspace to Russian passenger, cargo, and charter flights after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The European Union countries have done the same.

Earlier it became known that Russia itself does not look too brightly at the prospect of lifting sanctions. In particular, Sberbank CEO German Gref called for preparations for the fact that the United States may not ease, but even strengthen them. "We proceed from the scenario that no sanctions will be lifted. Moreover, we are proceeding from the situation that the sanctions will be strengthened," Gref said.

OBOZ.UA also reported that on February 27, US President Donald Trump extended several sanctions previously imposed on Russia. Trump's decision states that the sanctions will last for another year.

Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!