Potential delay in resuming direct flights between Russia and the United States.

Potential delay in resuming direct flights between Russia and the United States.

In an interview conducted by TASS, Maya Lomidze, head of the Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR), expressed her belief that the restoration of direct air communication between Russia and the U.S. may take a considerable time. This viewpoint comes amidst a complex geopolitical landscape and unresolved issues between the two nations.

The U.S. has made the restoration of direct flights contingent on progress towards a ceasefire in Ukraine, highlighting the political tensions and the role of Ukraine in current U.S.-Russia relations. The historical context of U.S.-Russia relations also includes sanctions and the seizure of Russian properties, which Russia wants resolved before any discussions about direct flights can progress.

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the involvement of other nations, such as Iran, create an environment where restoring direct air travel is not a priority or a straightforward process. Despite optimistic statements by individuals like Kirill Dmitriev, the special representative of the President of Russia for investment-economic cooperation, who suggested that direct air communication between Russia and the U.S. could be restored by the end of 2025, the lack of specific dates for talks indicates a lack of urgency or clear commitment to resolving the issues quickly.

Meanwhile, Maya Lomidze has been discussing the possibility of opening direct air communication with Saudi Arabia for two years. However, details such as time slots, prices, and availability are not yet disclosed, and it remains unclear whether or not direct air communication with Saudi Arabia has actually begun.

It is worth noting that Kirill Dmitriev's statement does not mention any discussions or plans regarding direct air communication with Saudi Arabia. His optimistic outlook on the restoration of direct air communication between Russia and the U.S. provides a contrast to Maya Lomidze's more cautious view.

Maya Lomidze emphasized that passengers should not rely on the announcement of soon opening direct air communication with the U.S., stressing that significant progress needs to be made before any reliable information can be provided. Anastasia Smirnova, the source of this news article, reported this development for RIA "Novy Day".

The ongoing political tension and unresolved issues between the U.S. and Russia, as well as the complex geopolitical landscape, may influence not only the restoration of direct air communication between the two nations, but also shape the general-news landscape and global political dynamics. On the other hand, Maya Lomidze, head of ATOR, has expressed interest in discussing the possibility of opening direct air communication with Saudi Arabia, offering a glimpse into a potential shift in her organization's travel lifestyle.

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