MOSCOW (Reuters) – The presidents of Russia and Turkey on Wednesday began talks on curbing renewed violence in northwest Syria and on possibly expanding Moscow’s sales of military defence systems to Ankara despite U.S. objections.

Talks are being held in Sochi, a Russian Black Sea resort. The Kremlin stated that Vladimir Putin had met with Tayyip Erdogan to end a period associated with coronavirus self-isolation.

Turkish officials indicated that Erdogan was going to press Putin to return the ceasefire reached last year in order to prevent a Russian/Syrian military attack on Turkey’s Idlib-supporting fighters.

It is important that we work together on Syria. Erdogan stated to Putin that the peace in Syria is contingent on Turkey-Russian ties at the beginning of their discussions.

Putin only made a brief reference to Syria during his opening remarks, but said that it was an area where both countries had worked well together.

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that negotiations with Turkey can be difficult, but they have learned how to reach mutually beneficial compromises.

Washington objects strongly to the potential Turkish purchase more Russian S-400 anti-missile defense batteries.

Erdogan made apparent references to America and told Putin that he would be open to further defense cooperation, regardless of U.S. objections.

Erdogan said to Putin that the UNGA (U.N. General Assembly) was a place where the “typical persons” asked Erdogan about specific issues.

We gave them the correct answer anyway. We cannot reverse the actions we have taken. This is something I believe strongly: It is vital that we continue to strengthen Turkey-Russian ties each day.

NATO member Turkey purchased Russian S-400 missile defense batteries in 2019. This triggered U.S. sanctions and warned Washington that it would take further actions if it purchases more Russian equipment.

Erdogan indicated last week that Turkey would still purchase a second set of S-400s and said no other country can dictate Ankara’s actions.