Trump Floats Putin Meeting During Saudi Arabia Trip; Russia-U.S. Talks Focus on Diplomatic Missions in Istanbul

President Trump has expressed openness to meeting with President Putin during his planned visit to Saudi Arabia in May. He also reiterated his desire for a swift resolution to the war in Ukraine.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has stated that President Putin supports a ceasefire in Ukraine, contingent on resolving specific issues. However, Peskov has denied reports of an imminent call between Putin and Trump.

In Istanbul, increased security was observed near the Russian consulate general for the second round of Russia-U.S. consultations on April 10, 2025. Ambassador Alexander Darchiev led the Russian delegation, while Deputy Assistant Secretary Sonata Coulter headed the U.S. side. The U.S. Department of State clarified that these talks focus on diplomatic missions and exclude political or security issues, including the Ukraine conflict.

Following the meeting, Darchiev noted progress in consultations on normalizing the work of diplomatic missions. Both sides exchanged notes on an agreement regarding banking and financial services for their respective diplomatic missions. They also agreed on measures to facilitate diplomat movement and visa processing.