US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that he had met with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, and insisted on the Kremlin to accept their offer for the Americans detained in Russia.
RELATIONS WITH TWO COUNTRIES
Blinken held a joint press conference after meeting between delegations with Japanese Foreign Minister Hayashi Yoshimasa. Underlining that they attach importance to bilateral relations with Japan, Blinken said that they also discussed the issue of strengthening the relations between the two countries.
Stating that he had a phone call with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov for the first time since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine War, Blinken said, “We had a candid and direct meeting. He insisted on the Kremlin to accept our offer for the release of Britney Griner and Paul Whelan. I stressed.” used the phrase.
ANNEXATION ALERTS FROM BLINKEN TO LAVROV
Blinken also emphasized that Russia should fulfill its commitments on the export of Ukrainian grain during the meeting, adding, “Our Ukrainian Ambassador Bridget Brink was in Odessa Port this morning. She confirmed that the grains were loaded on the ships and ready for action. The steps that Russia will take here are for the whole world. very important.” she spoke.
Blinken, who said that Russia also brought up the signs that Russia is preparing to annex parts of Ukraine, said, “The world will never accept the annexation. If Russia continues these plans, we will impose additional sanctions.” warned.
Pointing out that he will continue to support Ukraine until the Russian attacks are over, Blinken said, “We are working closely with all our partners and allies, including Japan, to support Ukraine and hold Moscow accountable for what it has done. However, the United States continues to support all meaningful diplomatic efforts to end this war. It’s ready too.” made its assessment.
In some news in the US media, it was suggested that the US would extradite Russian Viktor But, who was imprisoned in the US, in exchange for Griner and Whelan. (AA)