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Russian Lawmakers Warn Against Underestimating US Visit
Duma delegation's trip aims to restart parliamentary relations after long break
Mar. 28, 2026 at 12:48am
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The visit by Russian lawmakers aims to restart parliamentary dialogue amid ongoing geopolitical tensions between Moscow and Washington.Anchorage TodayA senior Russian lawmaker, Vyacheslav Nikonov, has cautioned against underestimating the significance of a recent visit by a delegation from the State Duma (Russia's lower house of parliament) to the United States. Nikonov, the first deputy chairman of the State Duma Committee on International Affairs, said the trip should not be overestimated but also should not be dismissed, as it represents an effort to relaunch bilateral parliamentary relations after a long hiatus.
Why it matters
The visit by Russian lawmakers comes at a time of heightened tensions between Moscow and Washington, with relations strained over issues like the war in Ukraine and allegations of Russian interference in US elections. However, Nikonov suggested the 'spirit of Anchorage' - a reference to a 2019 meeting between the Russian and US presidents - remains alive, indicating a potential opening for dialogue between the two countries' legislative bodies.
The details
According to Nikonov, the State Duma-US Congress relations workgroup has been reactivated after a long break. He said the importance of the 'impetus' given to bilateral relations at the 2019 Anchorage meeting between President Vladimir Putin and then-President Donald Trump should not be downplayed, despite recent doubts about whether that 'spirit' still exists.
- The Russian State Duma delegation visited the United States in late March 2026.
The players
Vyacheslav Nikonov
First deputy chairman of the State Duma Committee on International Affairs, a senior Russian lawmaker.
Vladimir Putin
President of Russia.
Donald Trump
Former President of the United States.
What they’re saying
“I believe, the progress we are seeing should certainly not be overestimated but it also should not be underestimated.”
— Vyacheslav Nikonov, First deputy chairman of the State Duma Committee on International Affairs
“There have been discussions lately about whether the 'spirit of Anchorage' is still alive. I believe it is.”
— Vyacheslav Nikonov, First deputy chairman of the State Duma Committee on International Affairs
The takeaway
This visit by Russian lawmakers represents a potential opening for dialogue between the Russian and US legislative bodies, despite the broader tensions between the two countries. While the trip may not lead to major breakthroughs, it signals an effort to maintain some level of parliamentary engagement and communication.
