Rouble strengthens against dollar on news of Russia-U.S. talks, up 15% this year

MOSCOW, Feb 6 (Reuters) - The rouble strengthened further against the U.S. dollar on Thursday on news about possible talks between Russia and the United States on Ukraine, bringing total gains in the Russian currency to 15% since the start of the year.

At 0830 GMT, the rouble was up 1.3% to 97.70 against the dollar, according to data from the over-the-counter market. The rouble has been trading at around 97.00 to the dollar in a sustainable way since October 2024.

The rouble weakened 0.5% against China's yuan on the Moscow Stock Exchange (MOEX), after hitting 12.84, the strongest level since September 16. The Russian currency is also up 5% against the Chinese yuan since the start of the year.

"In Russia, they stress the lack of specifics regarding steps to achieve a peace agreement, but also demonstrate a willingness to engage in dialogue, which supports optimism in the markets," said Elena Kozhukhova from Veles Capital brokerage.

The rouble also received support from an announcement about increased sales of the Chinese yuan by the central bank from February 7. The regulator intervenes on the forex market to ensure there is enough liquidity in the market.