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Russia and Ukraine Engage in Direct Peace Talks in Istanbul Amidst Tense Backdrop
ISTANBUL: Russian and Ukrainian negotiators convened in Istanbul on Friday for their first direct peace negotiations in over three years. The talks, held under the observation of Turkish officials and with noted pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump, aim to address the ongoing conflict in Europe, described as its deadliest since World War Two.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan delivered opening remarks at the meeting, which took place at the Dolmabahce Palace. This face-to-face discussion marks a significant, albeit tentative, step in diplomatic efforts, as the two sides had not met directly since March 2022, shortly after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
However, expectations for a substantial breakthrough remain low. These were further tempered by President Trump’s comments on Thursday, suggesting that progress was contingent on a meeting between himself and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump, concluding a Middle East tour, reiterated on Friday his intention to meet Putin “as soon as we can set it up.”
Kyiv has laid out clear demands for peace, with the head of Ukraine’s delegation stating that a resolution is only possible if Russia agrees to a 30-day ceasefire, the return of abducted Ukrainian children, and a comprehensive exchange of all prisoners of war.
Russia has expressed a willingness to discuss a ceasefire and end the war through diplomatic channels but has also voiced concerns that a pause could allow Ukraine to regroup, mobilize additional forces, and acquire more Western weaponry. Ukraine and its allies, conversely, accuse Putin of stalling and not being genuinely committed to peace.
The proposal for direct talks in Turkey originated from Putin, though he declined Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s challenge to meet in person, sending mid-level officials instead. Ukraine reciprocated by appointing negotiators of similar rank.
Adding to the diplomatic activity, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Trump’s Ukraine envoy Keith Kellogg were also present in Istanbul, engaging in separate meetings earlier on Friday. Rubio expressed skepticism on Thursday night regarding the likelihood of a major breakthrough, given the level of the negotiating teams, though he hoped to be proven wrong.
The talks commenced against a backdrop of continued hostilities, with Russia announcing the capture of another village in eastern Ukraine on Friday. Shortly before the meeting began, Ukrainian media reported air alerts and explosions in the city of Dnipro.
