Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Istanbul: Fresh bid for resolution
The head of the Russian delegation, Vladimir Medinsky, stated that the talks with Ukraine in Istanbul are a continuation of the peace process from 2022.
Many of the pieces of information provided by Russian state media or Kremlin officials are likely not true. Such reports may be part of an information warfare campaign by the Russian Federation.
Vladimir Medinsky, leading the Russian delegation, emphasised that the talks with Ukraine in Istanbul are viewed by Russia as an extension of the peace process from 2022. During a speech at the Russian General Consulate in Istanbul, Medinsky stated that the aim of the discussions is to establish a lasting peace and to address the fundamental causes of the conflict.
Mediators from the USA and Turkey
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, informed that talks may occur on Thursday evening or Friday. Representatives from the USA and Turkey will participate as mediators in the negotiations in Istanbul.
Vladimir Putin had already proposed to the Kyiv authorities to resume negotiations, which had been interrupted at the end of 2022. Medinsky did not answer journalists' questions following his statement.
The fate of Ukraine at stake? Talks in Istanbul
The Kremlin announced on Wednesday evening that Russian leader Vladimir Putin will not be in Istanbul. The Russian delegation will be led by his advisor Vladimir Medinsky. Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin, Deputy Defence Minister Alexander Fomin, and the head of the main directorate of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Russia, Admiral Igor Kostiukov, will also travel to Turkey.
Previously, President Zelensky had noted that he would participate in talks with Russia only if Putin were present. Ultimately, on Thursday, he announced that a delegation would represent him.
The United States is represented by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and special envoys Steve Witkoff and Keith Kellogg.
