Ukraine-Russia peace talks resume in Istanbul with U.S. and Turkey mediators
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.
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Vladimir Medinsky, leading the Russian delegation, emphasized that the talks with Ukraine in Istanbul are viewed by Russia as a continuation of the peace process from 2022. The aim of these talks is to establish a lasting peace and address the fundamental causes of the conflict, Medinsky stated during a speech at the Russian General Consulate in Istanbul.
Mediators from the USA and Turkey
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, informed that the delegation talks might take place on Thursday evening or Friday. Representatives from the USA and Turkey are expected to participate in the negotiations in Istanbul as mediators.
Vladimir Putin had already proposed to the authorities in Kyiv to resume negotiations, which were interrupted at the end of 2022. Medinsky did not answer journalists' questions after his statement.
The fate of Ukraine at stake? Talks in Istanbul
The Kremlin announced 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 Defense 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 said that he would participate in talks with Russia only if Putin were also 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.
