Russia seeks talks with U.S. to restore direct flights – ambassador

Russia hopes to begin negotiations with the United States on restoring direct air travel between the two countries, Russian Ambassador to the U.S. Anatoly Darchiev told TASS in an interview published Wednesday.

"The resumption of direct air service between Russia and the United States, which was halted by Washington in 2022 and mirrored by reciprocal action from our side, is a key priority," Darchiev said.

He described the issue as "multi-faceted" and requiring talks involving aviation authorities.

The ambassador also confirmed that the next round of U.S.–Russia bilateral consultations — aimed at resolving diplomatic frictions — would be relocated from Istanbul to the respective capitals, with the next meeting set to take place soon in Moscow.

Despite ongoing dialogue, Darchiev noted that full normalization of bilateral relations remains distant, with progress slow and difficult.