Noting that the parties will meet next week, Huntsman recalled that the previous three rounds of negotiations had been unproductive.
However, according to the U.S. envoy, the very fact that the negotiation process is underway inspires confidence. Huntsman expressed hope that the fourth round of talks would yield some progress and that the U.S. and Russia would be moving away from the lowest point in their relations.
The two countries still need to overcome the existing contradictions to this end, Huntsman believes.
Read alsoRussia rejects 26 of 29 U.S. proposals for UN peacekeeping force in DonbasAccording to the diplomat, a significant deterioration in bilateral relations took place as a result of Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, including Crimea annexation, and meddling in the U.S. elections of 2016.
He has also stressed that once Minsk agreements are fully implemented, Russia sanctions could be lifted.
Huntsman stressed that the Ukrainian settlement is the main obstacle in reestablishing better ties between the Russian Federation and the United States.
Read alsoKuchma: Russia suggests redrawing Ukraine border in eastAs UNIAN reported earlier, on November 13 the third meeting between Kurt Volker and Vladislav Surkov took place in Belgrade (Serbia). The U.S. side stated that the two countries would continue to make efforts to end the war in Donbass, despite various concepts regarding the ways of achieving peace.
