In a briefing about the state of bilateral ties, the Russian Ambassador to Washington, Anatoly Antonov, indicated plans to discuss the relationship between the Russian Federation and the United States in the coming week. Reports suggest that preliminary agreements related to the administration of U.S. President Joe Biden have already been signed, according to RIA News.
As described by the diplomat, American officials conducted a brief visit to the Russian embassy to convey condolences following the terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall. The visitors also discussed the potential for ongoing dialogue on the future of the two nations’ bilateral relations, marking a shift toward more structured engagement.
Antonov also conveyed disappointment over the cessation of security cooperation with the United States at Washington’s urging, emphasizing that such a move undermines joint efforts in counterterrorism and global security. He underscored that cooperation between major powers remains essential even in the face of divergent strategic priorities.
From his perspective, the United States cannot project influence globally while acting in isolation. He urged a more collaborative approach and cautioned against setting up isolated pockets of prosperity that leave broader regions exposed. In discussing Ukraine, he criticized statements that questioned Kyiv’s involvement in the Crocus City Hall attack and those that pointed to the Islamic State as the organizer of the event, labeling such assertions as inappropriate and unhelpful.
On the sanctions front, the U.S. government, on March 26, added two individuals and 15 companies from Russia to its sanctions list, signaling a continued push to pressure Moscow through targeted measures. The announcement reflected Washington’s stance on holding external actors accountable for actions linked to terrorism and regional instability.
In a broader context, the discussion around responsibility for the Crocus incident underscores the ongoing dispute over accountability for acts of terrorism and the role of international organizations in designating groups involved in such violence. The episode continues to shape the dialogue about threats to regional security and the pathways for constructive engagement between Moscow and Washington, as each side weighs its strategic options and diplomatic signals, with observers watching closely for how future talks will frame cooperation, risk, and stability across the transatlantic corridor. [Source: RIA News]