Top Russian official in Washington for talks on improving ties
The Hindu
Top Russian economic negotiator visits Washington for talks on improving US-Russia ties amid Ukraine conflict, seeking dialogue restoration.
Russia’s top economic negotiator announced Thursday (April 3, 2025) that he was in Washington for talks on improving ties, the highest-level visit by a Kremlin official to the United States since Russia invaded Ukraine.
Kirill Dmitriev, the head of Russia’s sovereign wealth fund, said he was “holding meetings in Washington with representatives of President Donald Trump’s administration”, without elaborating.
U.S. media reported that Mr. Dmitriev arrived Wednesday (April 2, 2025) and was expected to meet with Mr. Trump envoy Steve Witkoff at the White House, though his itinerary has not been made public.
The talks come as Mr. Trump pushes for warmer ties with Moscow, reaching out to Russian President Vladimir Putin and holding direct talks with Russian officials in the hope of brokering a ceasefire in the three-year Ukraine war.
“The dialogue between Russia and the United States, which is crucial for the entire world, was completely destroyed under the Biden administration,” Mr. Dmitriev wrote on Telegram, announcing the visit.
“Restoring dialogue is not an easy process, and it’s gradual. But every meeting, every frank conversation allows us to move forward,” he added.
The White House has not publicly commented on the visit, while the Kremlin said details would be revealed only after Mr. Dmitriev had finished his meetings.
Shooting at a Georgia VA clinic leaves one employee hospitalized and the gunman dead, prompting investigations by authorities.
UNICEF reports 100,000 flee South Sudan's Akobo due to escalating conflict, worsening conditions for displaced populations in Ethiopia.
Cuba restores electricity to two-thirds of the country after a nationwide blackout amid ongoing economic challenges and U.S. sanctions.
U.S. President Donald Trump declares the U.S. no longer needs ally support in Iran conflict amid rising tensions and global energy concerns.
Joe Kent resigns as National Counterterrorism Centre head, citing Iran poses no imminent threat amid war pressures from Israel.
PJAK emphasizes its autonomy in the fight for a democratic Iran, rejecting involvement in external conflicts, says co-chair Peyman Viyan.
The Hindu quiz: Does the joint U.S.-Israeli military operation on Iran constitute a war, conflict, escalation, or campaign change? A quiz on lexicons and lives.
A 5.8-magnitude earthquake struck off Cuba's coast, with no immediate reports of casualties or damage.
Israel's Defence Minister announces the killing of Iran's security chief Ali Larijani in an overnight military strike.
China pledges humanitarian aid to Iran and West Asia amid ongoing conflict, highlighting the region's urgent humanitarian crisis.
Ofcom extends BT Openreach regulation for five years, widening price caps to boost competition and enhance broadband access in the U.K.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu shares Nowruz greetings with Iranians, emphasizing hope and freedom amid ongoing tensions.
India strongly condemns Pakistan's airstrikes on a Kabul hospital, urging accountability for violence against Afghan civilians.