Moscow suggests renewing direct flights as US eyes minerals
Moscow has proposed the restoration of direct air connections between the USA and Russia. This suggestion emerged as one of the anticipated outcomes of talks held in Turkey, which, according to Vladimir Putin, "raised hope" for rebuilding relations.
The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed satisfaction with the recent discussions with the USA, which took place in Turkey. The meeting lasted six hours, and Vladimir Putin later stated that contacts with the Donald Trump administration give hope for improving relations.
During the talks, the topic of the "illegal confiscation" of Russian diplomatic property in the USA was discussed. Russia also appealed for consideration of restoring direct air connections. Both parties agreed on steps to ensure uninterrupted funding and regular operations of embassies.
US interested in Russian minerals
The Special Envoy of the US President to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, noted that the United States is interested in the extraction of rare earth metals in Russia. "The mineral mines are quite extensive, but, by the way, they are quite extensive in Russia. And I think there will be a plenty of opportunities [for cooperation] for the United States with Russia when this peace deal gets finished," Witkoff said on Fox News.
In parallel with the US-Russia discussions, the future of the agreement between the United States and Ukraine is being considered. Volodymyr Zelensky is scheduled to fly to Washington to meet with Donald Trump and sign an agreement regarding Ukrainian natural deposits. This meeting may be crucial for the future of economic cooperation in the region.
