Moscow: The Kremlin announced that an anticipated visit by Russian lawmakers to the United States is expected to aid in reviving bilateral relations between the two nations, which have been strained since the Ukraine conflict began in February 2022.

According to Anadolu Agency, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized the significance of this dialogue, stating that it is a crucial communication channel that had been entirely frozen. He expressed hope that these initial steps would contribute to the restoration of bilateral relations. The statement followed remarks by Alexey Chepa, a Russian State Duma lawmaker, who revealed that a group of deputies from the lower house of parliament plans to visit the US. Chepa noted that while about four to five lawmakers intend to travel, details regarding guarantees for those under sanctions remain unresolved. Although the delegation's members were not specified, Interfax reported that Vyacheslav Nikonov would lead the group. Later, an airplane reportedly carrying the delegation landed in New York.

Peskov also addressed the ongoing peace negotiations concerning the Russia-Ukraine war, highlighting unresolved territorial issues. Despite a lack of progress, Peskov affirmed Russia's interest in continuing negotiations when circumstances permit. He refuted a New York Times report that suggested Russian President Vladimir Putin might be seeking an exit from the conflict, labeling it as false. The report stated that developments in the Middle East had stalled efforts to end the war.

Moscow and Kyiv recently confirmed a pause in peace talks due to regional tensions. The parties had engaged in three rounds of trilateral talks mediated by the US earlier this year, held in Abu Dhabi and Geneva.