Negotiations between Russia and the United States in Riyadh have begun, world agencies reported, quoted by BTA.
The two sides are expected to discuss ways to end the conflict in Ukraine and restore US-Russian relations. The conversation could pave the way for a summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.
Ukraine, which is not participating in the talks, has said such a peace deal cannot be concluded on its behalf without its consent.
For its part, Russia said Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov would meet with senior U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, for talks that would focus on ending the war in Ukraine and restoring Russian-U.S. ties.