Russia-Ukraine talks: Focus on Black Sea navigation safety
On Friday, Dmitry Peskov stated that an "integral part" of any potential future agreements between Russia and Ukraine must include "the safety of navigation in the Black Sea". Putin's spokesperson also confirmed that the next round of negotiations will take place on Monday in Istanbul.
Many of the reports provided by Russian state media or Kremlin officials are likely not true. Such reports may be part of an information war by the Russian Federation.
"At present, everyone is focusing on the direct Russian-Ukrainian negotiations. A list of conditions is being prepared. A list of conditions for a temporary ceasefire will be agreed upon, and therefore the safety of navigation in the Black Sea will, in one way or another, become an integral part of the likely future agreements," said Dmitry Peskov.
Putin's spokesperson further confirmed that the Russian-Ukrainian talks will resume on Monday, 2nd June in Istanbul. However, the drafts of memoranda from both sides will not be disclosed, he added.
"Putin ready for talks"
Peskov also referred to potential talks between Putin, Donald Trump, and Volodymyr Zelensky. The Kremlin spokesperson once again "confirmed Putin's readiness for talks." However, he noted the conditions that must be met for such negotiations to take place.
"They need to be prepared, and first, an outcome must be achieved in direct negotiations between the countries' delegations. If such a result is achieved, and when it is achieved, then of course we can talk about contacts at the highest level," he indicated.
Ukraine also addressed the talks in Istanbul. "We want to end this war this year. We are interested in a ceasefire. Ukraine will openly and directly discuss this with Russia. We confirmed this during our last meetings," assured Andriy Yermak, head of the Ukrainian president's office.
