Ukraine, Russia End Istanbul Talks as Kyiv Calls for Leaders’ Summit by August
Ukraine, Russia Wrap Up Istanbul Talks as Kyiv Pushes for Leaders’ Summit
The third round of Russia-Ukraine peace negotiations concluded in Istanbul, with both sides signaling cautious willingness to continue dialogue—though core disagreements persist.
The talks, lasting less than an hour on Wednesday, saw Kyiv propose an immediate ceasefire and call for a presidential-level summit by late August.
“We want a result-oriented process,” said Andriy Yermak, head of Ukraine’s delegation, urging Russia to adopt a “constructive approach.” He also expressed optimism for “further progress” on prisoner of war exchanges, following a recent deal involving the return of 1,200 bodies of fallen soldiers.
Russia Open to Continued Contact
Russian negotiator Vladimir Medinsky confirmed that both parties agreed to maintain regular communication. He said a second large-scale repatriation of remains had been completed and offered to return another 3,000 bodies.
Medinsky proposed the formation of three virtual working groups focusing on political, military, and humanitarian issues, including the repatriation of detained civilians. He noted that some Russian civilians from the Kursk region remain in Ukrainian custody and suggested a swap for Ukrainian soldiers.
Regarding Kyiv’s push for a summit between Presidents Zelenskyy and Putin, Medinsky said such a meeting should be reserved for formal signings, not exploratory talks.
Türkiye’s Role and the Road Ahead
Türkiye, which hosted the talks, has sought to play a constructive mediating role since the war began in 2022. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan praised the progress, stating:
“Our goal is that the parties will engage in result-oriented consultations based on earlier dialogue and shared memoranda. The ultimate objective is to build peace through a ceasefire.”
Fidan emphasized that Ankara’s diplomatic efforts under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan have focused on facilitating humanitarian outcomes and paving the way for broader agreements.
Ceasefire Proposal and Next Steps
Russia suggested short-term ceasefires as confidence-building measures and reiterated its willingness to engage in future negotiations. Though brief, the Istanbul round marks another brick in Türkiye’s ongoing efforts to de-escalate the conflict, now entering its fourth year.
