**US and Russia Talks in Istanbul “Constructive”**
Talks between the US and Russia on February 27 were positive and helped to identify steps to stabilize embassy operations. This was according to a statement from the US State Department.
The talks, which lasted over six hours, focused on issues such as access to banking services and staffing levels at the US Embassy in Moscow. The Russian delegation was led by Ambassador Alexander Darchiyev, while the US side was headed by Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Sonata Coulter.
**US Ramps Up Diplomatic Efforts**
The meeting came amid US President Donald Trump’s efforts to broker a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine. This effort has been met with skepticism, particularly given the US’s recent shift in policy towards Ukraine and Russia.
Trump has adopted a more hostile rhetoric towards Ukraine while refusing to name Russia as the aggressor. In contrast, former President Joe Biden had taken a tougher stance against Russia.
**European Leaders Back Ukraine**
Meanwhile, European leaders have expressed support for Ukraine and are working together to define a unified stance on defense and security guarantees for the country. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development has lowered its growth forecast for Ukraine’s economy due to ongoing conflict.
**Russia-Ukraine Conflict Continues**
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues, with recent reports suggesting that Russian forces have suffered over 1,000 casualties in just one day. The US and UK have imposed sanctions on Russia’s oil sector, leading to a significant drop in Turkish imports of Russian oil.
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