Russian and US delegations held talks in Istanbul, Turkey, on Thursday. The closed-door meeting held at the US consulate general there lasted over six hours. The two sides discussed ways to resolve \”numerous irritants\” in bilateral relations. Russia raised the issue of its diplomatic property in the US, specifically six real estate properties that were \”illegally seized\” between 2016 and 2018. Russia proposed that the US consider restoring direct flights and stressed the need for tangible results that would help improve bilateral relations in the interests of both nations.Moscow and Washington have agreed to continue their diplomatic contacts, the statement concluded. The Russian Foreign Ministry said on Friday that the two sides agreed on joint steps to ensure the unhindered financing of their diplomatic missions on a reciprocal basis. The Ministry also said that Russia and the US have repeatedly expelled each other’s diplomats, significantly reducing their embassy staffing levels. For confidential support call the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90 or visit a local Samaritans branch, see www.samaritans.org for details. In the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Line on 1-800-273-8255.
