Condoleezza Rice's Discussions with Russian Defense and Foreign Affairs Officials in Moscow - 2003-04-07

Condoleezza Rice, the U.S. National Security Advisor, held discussions with officials from the Russian Ministry of Defense and Foreign Affairs in Moscow. According to Lisa McAdams, the aim of these discussions was to improve the strained relations between the two countries over disagreements regarding the U.S.-led war in Iraq. During her one-day visit to the Russian capital, Rice met with Igor Ivanov, the Foreign Minister, Sergei Ivanov, the Defense Minister, and Vladimir Rushailo, the head of the Russian Security Council. She did not provide further comments beyond stating that the talks were constructive and useful. A spokesperson for the U.S. Embassy said Rice came to Moscow to find ways to advance U.S.-Russia relations, which have faced a difficult path in recent weeks, leading to bitter exchanges over the Iraq war. The U.S. has accused Russian companies of supplying prohibited military equipment to Iraq, which Moscow denies. Moscow also summoned the U.S. ambassador to protest against airstrikes in Baghdad that reportedly occurred dangerously close to the Russian embassy. Since then, both sides have exchanged statements indicating a reduction in tensions and conciliatory remarks. According to the Kremlin press office, Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke with President Bush over the past weekend and reiterated the need for continued diplomatic dialogue between the two countries despite the disagreements over the war. Rice arrived in Moscow on the same day that a convoy escorting the Russian ambassador from Baghdad to Syria came under fire, injuring at least four Russian officials, who then proceeded to Syria after a brief stop and treatment. Russian officials are awaiting clarification on whether U.S.-led forces or Iraqi forces were responsible for the attack on the Russian convoy. The U.S. Central Command stated that U.S.-led forces were not present in the area at the time of the incident and promised a thorough investigation into the matter.