Russia and the United States have agreed to restore full diplomatic relations, marking an extraordinary reversal of policy. The two countries plan to re-establish embassies with “vibrant diplomatic missions that are able to function normally,” as Secretary of State Marco Rubio said. However, Russia has hardened its demands over Ukraine, dismissing the idea of British or other NATO-led peacekeeping troops in the event of a truce.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that the appearance of armed forces from NATO countries under a false flag would be “unacceptable” to Russia. The talks, held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, aim to establish Ukraine peace talks and end the war in the country after US President Donald Trump initiated negotiations.
The US and Russia agreed on re-establishing diplomatic staffing at their respective embassies, reversing expulsions following Mr. Putin’s invasion. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reiterated his demand for a full return to 2014 borders, stating that Ukraine will not legally recognize the parts occupied by Russia.
The agreement comes as European leaders discussed US plans to end transatlantic security guarantees in Paris on Monday, with Ukraine excluded from Tuesday’s meeting. White House officials have rejected claims that Europe has been left out of the conversation, noting administration officials have spoken to several leaders.
Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/putin-starmer-british-troops-ukraine-russia-b2700658.html