US, Russia Hold Constructive Talks on Ukraine, Syria, Iran at ASEAN Summit

High-level diplomatic talks between the United States and Russia have recently taken place amid escalating conflict in Ukraine. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit in Malaysia, discussing Ukraine, Syria, Iran, and broader international issues, with both sides expressing a mutual desire for peaceful conflict resolution and renewed economic and humanitarian cooperation. Despite the ongoing diplomatic dialogue, Russian forces launched significant missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian territory, including Kyiv, underscoring the fragile situation. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has actively sought increased military and financial support from European allies, with a recent conference in Rome pledging over 10 billion euros in aid. Meanwhile, discussions continue on arms supplies, air defense, and sanctions against Russia, with U.S. officials emphasizing the need to strengthen Ukraine’s position in negotiations and increase economic pressure on Russia. The talks reflect complex and multifaceted efforts to resolve the war while managing strained U.S.-Russia relations.