US calls talks with Russia “constructive”
(VOVWORLD) - The second round of talks on restoring diplomatic missions between the US and Russia concluded on Thursday at the Russian Consulate in Istanbul, Turkey.
 The Russian flag (left) and the US flag at Vnukovo International Airport in Moscow, Russia. Photo: VNA
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In a statement following a six-hour meeting, the US State Department said Thursday's talks continued "the constructive approach" established at their February 27 meeting.
"The US and Russian delegations exchanged notes to finalize an understanding to ensure the stability of diplomatic banking for Russian and US bilateral missions," the statement said.
A US representative said a follow-up meeting will be held, if necessary, with the time, location, and participants to be determined later.
The same day, Russia and the US conducted their second prisoner swap since President Donald Trump took office in January, a step forward in efforts to mend relations between the two countries.
The exchange took place in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), overseen by US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director John Ratcliffe and a senior Russian intelligence official.