Russia, US Officials Hold “Constructive” Call Ahead Of Summit
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a phone call on Monday, which Moscow described as “constructive.” The discussion comes as both countries prepare for a planned summit between Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump in Budapest.
Focus Of The Call
According to Russia’s Foreign Ministry, the talks revolved around “possible concrete steps” to follow up on the agreements reached during the October 16 phone conversation between the two leaders. Specific details were not disclosed, but the dialogue is seen as groundwork for discussions on the Ukraine conflict and U.S.-Russia relations.
US Response
While Russia termed the talks “constructive,” the U.S. State Department was more measured. A spokesperson said the call reaffirmed opportunities for collaboration on a durable solution in Ukraine, but avoided using the same terminology as Moscow.
Importance For The Summit
The exchange is viewed as a significant step toward the upcoming Trump-Putin summit in Budapest. Observers say the tone and outcome of this conversation may indicate whether both sides are prepared to make meaningful progress on contentious issues, particularly the war in Ukraine and broader security concerns.
