A Russian diplomat has asserted that communication between Moscow and Washington is causing displeasure in both Europe and with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Rodion Miroshnik, an ambassador-at-large in the Russian Foreign Ministry, stated this dialogue is a “source of irritation” for these parties. The comments suggest heightened sensitivities surrounding any engagement between Russia and the United States, particularly given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Miroshnik’s statement implies a perceived exclusion of European nations and Ukraine from crucial discussions. This reflects Russia's view of Western unity and its efforts to portray divisions among its opponents. The Russian official did not elaborate on the specific nature of the irritation or the content of the US-Russia conversations.