Russia and U.S. move toward diplomatic normalization

Russia and the United States are moving toward further negotiations aimed at the comprehensive normalization of bilateral relations. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova stated that Moscow is prepared to cooperate with American partners to transition toward substantive discussions on priority issues. These discussions follow previous meetings between Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State Marc Rubio.

Currently, the two nations are coordinating the timing for meetings focused on resolving “irritating factors” in their relationship. While specific logistics are being kept confidential under a “gentlemen's agreement,” Moscow intends to shift the dialogue from technical diplomatic mission issues to more significant goals, such as the return of detained Russian diplomatic property and the restoration of direct flights.

Additionally, Kremlin aide Yuriy Ushakov indicated that Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump will likely meet and hold talks if both attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Shenzhen, China, scheduled for November 18–19, 2026.