Russian diplomat says talks with US on security guarantees underway: report

A Russian diplomat on Tuesday reportedly said that talks are being held with the United States regarding security guarantees that Moscow has demanded.

Senior security negotiator Konstantin Gavrilov told the RIA news agency that there is a possibility that both countries will reach an understanding, Reuters reported.

Russia has demanded guarantees that NATO will deny membership to Ukraine and will not deploy weapons or troops in the area. Moscow has reportedly not yet decided on what steps it will take in the event that NATO decides against considering its position. 

Tensions between the U.S. and Russia were strained after Moscow deployed thousands of troops near Ukraine’s border, raising concerns of a possible invasion.

Earlier this week, Russia said that the U.S. response to its security demands needed to be “urgent.” 

A senior Biden administration official told reporters at the time that the U.S. would provide a “more concrete proposal” this week after consulting with allies.

The Hill has reached out to Biden administration officials for comment.

–Updated at 8:46 a.m.