BREAKDOWN
The United States and Russia are seeking to find common ground after an extended period of high tension between the two.
US President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin have concluded their summit in Geneva, ending the first meeting between the two since Biden took office in January.
Wednesday’s talks in Geneva, Switzerland lasted about four hours, according to the White House.
Expectations for breakthroughs were low, with Moscow and Washington at odds on a range of issues ranging from arms control and cyber-hacking to election interference and Ukraine.
Earlier, Putin and Biden shook hands as they reached the summit.
“Mr. President, I would like to thank you for taking the initiative to meet with you today,” said Putin, sitting next to Biden. “The relations between the United States and Russia have accumulated a lot of problems that require a meeting at the highest level. “
Biden said the pair will try to determine areas of cooperation and mutual interest.
“It’s always best to meet face to face,” he said.
More soon …
