Kremlin says visit of senior Russian negotiator to US ‘possible’

ISTANBUL

The Kremlin on Wednesday said a visit by a senior Russian negotiator to the US is “possible,” responding to media reports about the official’s expected to visit Washington later this week.

CNN reported that Kirill Dmitriev, Russia’s special envoy for foreign investment and economic cooperation, is expected to visit Washington this week to meet US special envoy Steve Witkoff for discussions on bilateral relations, citing a US official and two sources familiar with the plans.

“Yes, I confirm that such a visit is possible. We continue our communication with the Americans through various channels. I cannot tell you anything more specific,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters in Moscow.

Contacts between Russia and the US continue to end the Ukraine war and normalize relations.

Peskov denied that US President Donald Trump’s expected visit to Saudi Arabia in May had any connections with contacts with Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying there was no consensus yet on the date and time of a possible meeting between the two leaders.

However, he confirmed that the dates and venue of an upcoming summit between Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping in May had been agreed upon.

“The agenda is currently being worked out. The most active preparations for this summit are underway. We will inform you about everything in a timely manner,” he said.

In February, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Putin and Xi will exchange visits for celebrations commemorating the 80th anniversary of each other's respective victories in World War II.

Strikes on energy sites

Peskov also commented on the situation with regards to the pause between Russia and Ukraine on strikes targeting energy facilities, arguing that Kyiv has yet to join the moratorium while Moscow continues to adhere to it.

"The Kyiv regime does not comply with the temporary moratorium and continues to strike our energy infrastructure on a daily basis," he said, adding that Russia is bringing this to the attention of the US.

Peskov recommended journalists to check with the Foreign Ministry to see if there was a US reaction through diplomatic channels.

"We will continue our work with the Americans, we will patiently convey to them the real state of affairs and Kyiv’s unwillingness to do anything for peace," he added.

Last month, the US brokered two agreements between Russia and Ukraine – one to ensure safe navigation in the Black Sea and another for a 30-day halt on attacks targeting energy infrastructure – following talks in Saudi Arabia.

Despite the agreements, both sides have frequently accused each other of violating the pause.