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

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.

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.

While the scope of the talks is narrow and will not include Ukraine, they will provide a test of both sides' seriousness about repairing their relations and working to end the war. The meeting follows a phone call between presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump on Feb.

US raises concerns over banking access, contracted services and stable staffing at its Moscow embassy, says State Department