After a rapid initial warming of U.S.-Russia relations, the Kremlin has recently stated that although the process of restoring relations has begun, many challenges remain, and it will require sustained efforts to mend the "severely damaged" relationship. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov mentioned in an interview: "We support the start of the process to move bilateral relations out of crisis, but we are still at the beginning of the journey." He emphasized that the previous U.S. administration caused the severe deterioration of relations between the two countries, and therefore, much work remains to be done.
Peskov also noted that both sides need to take more steps to build and strengthen mutual trust, stating that the damage of the past four years cannot be undone in a short time. "We must take many small steps to rebuild trust, which will lay the foundation for future relations," he added.
Additionally, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov revealed that the second round of U.S.-Russia talks will be held this weekend, possibly in Saudi Arabia, where the two countries are expected to discuss ways to eliminate irritants affecting bilateral relations. Meanwhile, preparations for a meeting between the Russian and American presidents have also begun.
Since the Biden administration took office, U.S.-Russia relations have steadily worsened, particularly following the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, leading to severe U.S. sanctions on Russia. With Trump's return, U.S.-Russia relations eased somewhat, and high-level talks resumed without Ukrainian and European representatives, causing displeasure among Ukraine and European allies. Putin responded by stating that the EU is not involved in these talks, as the key is to build trust between the U.S. and Russia.
Regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Putin mentioned that Trump approaches the issue in a rational manner but believes the conflict might not end as quickly as Trump hopes. Putin also pointed out that U.S. White House leaders aim to reach an agreement on the Ukrainian issue that may not necessarily benefit Russia, although Trump desires to improve the situation in Ukraine, it offers limited advantages for Russia.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov also emphasized that the war can only end once an agreement acceptable to Moscow is reached, and Russia is willing to negotiate with any country or group genuinely willing to promote peace.
