What are Putin's aims in the recent talks with U.S. officials?

The Kremlin is seeking to extract concessions from the Biden administration while improving Russia's international standing. Putin aims to demonstrate to the Russian public that Western efforts to isolate Russia are failing. The talks provide Russia an opportunity to be heard at a high level, with Putin particularly pleased that the U.S. is engaging directly without Ukraine at the table. According to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, Russia believes America is now 'listening better' to their position, which Putin will likely present as a diplomatic victory domestically.