The United States is interested in establishing stable and predictable relations with Russia in domains where the two countries can work together. This is stated in an opinion article by US President Joe Biden, published Saturday in The Washington Post.

“In my phone calls with [Russian] President Putin, I have been clear and direct. The United States does not seek conflict. We want a stable and predictable relationship where we can work with Russia on issues like strategic stability and arms control. That’s why I acted immediately to extend the New START treaty for five years and bolster the security of the American people and the world,” Biden stated.

“At the same time, I have also imposed meaningful consequences for behaviors that violate U.S. sovereignty, including interference in our democratic elections. And President Putin knows that I will not hesitate to respond to future harmful activities. When we meet, I will again underscore the commitment of the United States, Europe and like-minded democracies to stand up for human rights and dignity,” he added.

“We are standing united to address Russia’s challenges to European security, starting with its aggression in Ukraine, and there will be no doubt about the resolve of the United States to defend our democratic values, which we cannot separate from our interests,” the US president stressed.

The Putin-Biden meeting will take place on June 16 in Geneva, Switzerland.