Moscow: Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held a phone call with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss the implementation of the May 19 agreements between presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump, according to the Russian Foreign Ministry. The conversation also covered potential Russian-Ukrainian peace talks in Istanbul, Trkiye.

According to Anadolu Agency, Lavrov informed Rubio that Moscow is finalizing proposals for the next round of direct negotiations with Kyiv. Rubio emphasized Trump's commitment to quickly ending the war and expressed that Washington is ready to assist in bringing the conflicting parties closer together. The ministry stated that both parties affirmed their dedication to maintaining a constructive and mutually respectful dialogue between the foreign policy departments of Russia and the United States.

Additionally, the ministers addressed bilateral issues, although specific details were not disclosed. A US State Department readout of the call highlighted the recent exchange of '1,000-for-1,000' prisoners between Russia and Ukraine. The Secretary reiterated President Trump's insistence on engaging in constructive, good faith dialogue with Ukraine as the sole path to resolving the conflict.

Lavrov previously mentioned that Russia has proposed holding the second round of negotiations with Ukraine on June 2 in Istanbul. He noted that with the support of the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Trkiye, conditions have been established for the resumption of direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. Ukraine has yet to respond to Russia's proposal.