Round one, only Biden, Putin, Blinken and Lavrov present, went 45 minutes or so now done. Round two now underway with eight Russian and five American participants past the hour mark. Some arms control discussions apparently top of the agenda in this round.

The only opening excitement was in terms of Yankee and Russky media fighting for position. Swiss coppers called to settle things down. Several media folk not allowed in.

Separate and we emphasis 'separate' press conferences planned at some point latter.

We are being told that the Americans requested this arrangement so as not to give "legitimacy' to the Russian leader whatever the hell that means.

Biden apparently wants a 'stable' relationship with the bear.

The term "cold piece' is being bantered about.

Stay tuned but don't expect any surprises.