US Cancels June 16 Russia-US Talks on Embassy Operations, Postpones Third Round, Says Maria Zakharova

The Russian Foreign Ministry announced on June 16, 2025, that the United States has canceled the next round of bilateral consultations aimed at normalizing diplomatic relations and eliminating irritants between the two countries. The cancellation was made at the initiative of the American side, according to Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova. These talks were intended to ease restrictions on embassy operations and staff movements, contributing to the normalization of diplomatic missions in both countries. Despite the cancellation, Moscow expressed hope that the pause in consultations would not be prolonged.

The process had been initiated by Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump to improve bilateral ties. As of early July 2025, no new date has been set for resuming the talks, with the third round postponed by the US. Both sides remain in regular contact regarding issues to reduce mutual points of friction, but Moscow has indicated uncertainty about whether the talks will continue.