Pompeo speaks with Russian FM on Trump-Putin meeting

IANS  |  Washington 

said on Tuesday that of State spoke with Russian earlier on the day to discuss the future meeting of the two nation's presidents.

The two officials also discussed issues related to and North Korea, read the statement.

Also on Tuesday, the confirmed the phone conversation.

The said on Monday that the does not recognize Russia's alleged "attempt" on Crimea, and its sanctions on will remain in place.

On the same day, Kremlin stressed that the issue of Russia's annexation of Crimea would not be up for discussion at the summit.

"The Russian has repeatedly stated and explained to his interlocutors that the issue of Crimea cannot be and never will be on the agenda, as Crimea is an integral part of Russia," he said, adding that is open to dialogue and compromise on other issues.

was expelled from the in 2014 and has since then endured sanctions of the West after its incorporation of Crimea.

Last week, the Kremlin and the announced that the presidents of both countries would hold a summit in Finland's capital on July 16. The two leaders are expected to discuss bilateral relations, national security and top international issues.

According to Russian media reports, lately met with a US lawmakers delegation on Trump-Putin meeting. The delegation reportedly arrived on June 30, and will continue their visit till July 5.

--IANS

ahm/

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

First Published: Wed, July 04 2018. 05:40 IST