Russia Open to U.S. Talks on Ukraine, But Sees Few Prospects for Better Ties

Russia’s envoy to the United Nations, Vasily Alekseevich Nebenzya, said Moscow is waiting for “appropriate signals” from Washington on diplomatic contacts but holds low expectations for improved relations with the U.S. delegation at the U.N.

In an interview with Russia’s state-run news agency RIA, Nebenzya stated that Moscow remains open to discussions with the United States on Ukraine “on an equal basis”, with Russian interests acknowledged. His remarks come as U.S. President Donald Trump suggested that progress is being made in talks with Russia, though details remain undisclosed.

"We are open to contacts but on an equal basis and, as a requirement, taking account of Russian interests," Nebenzya said, emphasizing that Moscow is still waiting for a response from Washington.

Trump, who has pledged to end the war in Ukraine, has not publicly outlined his strategy. However, in an interview aboard Air Force One, he indicated that discussions with both Russia and Ukraine are ongoing, though he refrained from specifying their nature.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov declined to confirm or deny reports of direct conversations between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Despite diplomatic tensions, Nebenzya acknowledged that relations between Russian and U.S. diplomats at the United Nations have remained “pretty good.” Yet, he criticized the U.S. delegation that chaired the U.N. Security Council under President Joe Biden, calling it one of the worst for disregarding procedural norms.

His remarks underscored Moscow’s skepticism toward future engagement, as he noted that American diplomatic statements are often shaped by domestic political considerations rather than a genuine commitment to dialogue.

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