Russia is considering the negotiations of the special representative of the Russian President Vladimir Putin Kirill Dmitriev in Washington as an "important step" in a dialogue with the United States. This was stated by the Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov during a briefing on Friday, April 4.
According to Peskov, Russia has "careful optimism" on future relations with the United States after these contacts.
"Careful optimism is present. The work is underway. It is done through different channels. It is done .
Peskov also noted that it is too early to talk about any specific negotiation results.
"It is a complex process, it requires long discussions and compromises. We are aware that not everything depends on us, but Russia is ready for constructive dialogue if there is a corresponding mood on the other side," the Kremlin spokesman added.
Separately, Peskov commented on Kirill Dmitriev's statement on possible security guarantees for Ukraine.
"It is a subject of negotiations and discussions. It is impossible to talk about some specifics in this context. It is a very difficult topic, and all this will certainly be discussed," he said.
At the same time, Putin's press secretary made it clear that Russia is not yet ready to voice the specific conditions of any agreements on Ukraine.
"No one will call specific parameters until consultations continue. But the fact of negotiations is a positive signal," he added.
Kirill Dmitriev, who previously headed the Russian direct investment fund and had close ties with the Kremlin, did not participate in unofficial diplomatic missions for the first time. This time, according to sources, he met with several American officials and businessmen.
According to the Western media, the issues of possible termination of war in Ukraine, the exchange of prisoners, sanctions against the Russian Federation and the future of economic cooperation between the United States and Russia were discussed during the negotiations.
At the same time, the official Washington has not yet confirmed specific arrangements based on the results of these contacts.
Representatives of the US Presidential Administration Joe Baiden are still restraining any negotiations with Russian representatives.
"Our position remains unchanged: we support Ukraine in its struggle for sovereignty and territorial integrity. We will not make any decisions without the participation of Kiev," said one of the White House officials in a comment to The Washington Post.
At the same time, some American politicians view the possibility of negotiation as a way to reduce the tension between the US and Russia, as well as to find options for conflict resolution in Ukraine.
Despite the Kremlin's statements about "cautious optimism", analysts suggest that there is no real progress in dialogue between the US and Russia.
Western countries insist that any peace talks should take place on Ukraine, which requires the complete restoration of their territories and security guarantees.
At the same time, the Kremlin, judging by Peskov's statements, continues to look for ways to legitimize its actions and get concessions from the West without making serious concessions in the war.
