Russian and U.S. diplomats have held talks in Istanbul to discuss ways to normalize the operation of their embassies after diplomatic expulsions.

"The United States raised concerns regarding access to banking and contracted services as well as the need to ensure stable and sustainable staffing levels at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow," the U.S. State Department said.

Russia said on Friday it had suggested restoring direct air links with the United States at what it described as "substantive and businesslike" talks in Turkey.

The U.S. State Department has released a statement on the Russian-American meeting held in Istanbul on February 27.

"We expect that today's meeting will be first in the series of similar expert consultations that will move us closer, together with the U.S., in overcoming disagreements and strengthening trust," spokesperson Maria Zakharova said during a press briefing.

The Russian Foreign Ministry praised the latest round of talks with the United States in a statement on Friday, calling them "substantive and businesslike." Russian and U.S. teams held six hours of talks in Turkey on Thursday to try to restore the normal functioning of their embassies,

Putin hailed the Trump administration's "pragmatism and realistic view” compared with what he described as the “stereotypes and messianic ideological cliches” of its predecessors.

Russian and U.S. diplomats are holding talks in Istanbul on Thursday to discuss ways to normalize the operation of their respective embassies after rounds of diplomats’ expulsions in the past years

U.S. and Russian officials met for six hours in Istanbul on Thursday to address diplomatic issues, marking an early test of efforts to mend strained relations. The discussions, held at the U.S. consul generals residence,