Russian spy director makes phone conversation with CIA chief

(MENAFN) Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) Director Sergey Naryshkin held a phone conversation with CIA Director John Ratcliffe on Tuesday, during which both officials agreed to maintain regular communication.

According to a statement from Naryshkin on Wednesday, the discussion focused on enhancing international stability, security, and reducing tensions between Moscow and Washington. The two intelligence leaders also explored potential areas of cooperation and strategies for handling crisis situations.

Naryshkin has consistently expressed a willingness to maintain contact with the CIA, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions. Shortly after Ratcliffe’s appointment was confirmed by the U.S. Senate in January, the Russian intelligence chief stated he was open to a meeting with his American counterpart.

This latest exchange follows previous interactions between Naryshkin and U.S. intelligence officials. In 2023, he spoke with then-CIA Director William Burns about the Ukraine conflict and the Wagner Group mutiny. In May 2024, Naryshkin indicated that further talks with Burns remained a possibility.

The renewed dialogue between intelligence agencies aligns with broader diplomatic efforts by both Moscow and Washington to negotiate an end to the Ukraine conflict. On Tuesday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced he was considering a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin later this week to discuss a proposed 30-day ceasefire.

While the Kremlin has not issued an official response, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova did not rule out the possibility of further communication. Kremlin reporter Dmitry Smirnov has speculated that a conversation between Trump and Putin could take place on Friday.

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