Ukraine and Russia to commence crucial talks in Istanbul
Talks between the Russian and Ukrainian delegations concerning the war are set to commence on Friday, as reported by the independent Russian portal Meduza. Initially, consultations were intended to begin on Thursday.
An advisor to the Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, mentioned that the Ukrainian delegation will arrive in Istanbul on Thursday evening. However, discussions are scheduled to start the next day.
Representatives from the United States and Turkey are expected to take part in the Istanbul talks as mediators.
Zelensky with Erdogan
According to Ukrainian media, President Zelensky, who met with Turkey's President, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, on Thursday, has concluded his visit to Ankara and is on his way to Tirana to take part in the European Political Community Summit. He had previously announced that he would travel to Albania on Friday with the Turkish leader.
The Ukrainian delegation in Istanbul will be led by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, while the Russian delegation is headed by Vladimir Medinsky, an advisor to Vladimir Putin.
Talks in Istanbul: Who will sit at the table?
The Kremlin announced on Wednesday evening that Russian leader Vladimir Putin will not be in Istanbul. His advisor, Vladimir Medinsky, will lead the Russian delegation. Also travelling to Turkey are Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin, Deputy Defence Minister Alexander Fomin, and the chief of the Main Directorate of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, Admiral Igor Kostiukov.
Previously, President Zelensky said he would only participate in talks with Russia if Putin were also present. Eventually, on Thursday, he stated that a delegation would represent him.
The United States will be represented by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and special envoys Steve Witkoff and Keith Kellogg.
