According to the readout of the meeting of Antony Blinken and Sergei Lavrov, the United States sought a more stable and predictable relationship with Moscow but would act firmly in defense of U.S. interests in response to actions by Russia, the press service of the U.S. Department of State writes.
On Wednesday, May 19, Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on the margins of the Arctic Council Ministeria. During the negotiations, the U.S. official raised our deep concerns regarding Russia’s continued military deployments in and near Ukraine, its actions against VOA and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, and the health of Aleksey Navalny and the repression of opposition organizations, among other issues.
In addition, reiterated President Biden’s resolve to protect the U.S. citizens and “act firmly in defense of U.S. interests in response to actions by Russia that harm us [the United States] or our allies.” The Secretary made clear that Russia should release American citizens Paul Whelan and Trevor Reed so they can return home to their families.
The Secretary underscored the imperative of ensuring humanitarian access for the people of Syria, while they also discussed regional issues, including finding a long-term political solution to the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
However, they also raised the topic of mutual benefits for both Russia and the U.S. In particular. discussed areas in which both of our peoples could benefit from sustained and enhanced cooperation, including Afghanistan, strategic stability, and curbing Iran and the DPRK’s nuclear programs.
“The Secretary and the Foreign Minister committed to continued discussions going forward,” the readout concluded.