What decisions did Putin make regarding the Russian delegation for talks with Ukraine in Istanbul?
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Synopsis
On May 15, President Vladimir Putin approved the Russian delegation for crucial talks in Istanbul with Ukraine. The delegation includes key figures such as Vladimir Medinsky and Mikhail Galuzin, alongside experts to facilitate discussions. As both nations aim to address significant issues, the outcome of these talks could shape future relations.
Key Takeaways
- Putin approves a delegation for Ukraine talks.
- Discussions will focus on technical and political matters.
- Ukraine's President Zelensky expresses cautious optimism.
- Turkey is facilitating the peace process.
- Resumption of talks follows a significant hiatus.
Moscow, May 15 (NationPress) Russian President Vladimir Putin has sanctioned the members of the Russian delegation set to engage in discussions with Ukraine in Istanbul, Turkey, as confirmed by a statement from the Kremlin.
The delegation will be spearheaded by Russian Presidential Aide Vladimir Medinsky and will comprise Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin; Igor Kostyukov, head of the main directorate of the general staff of the Russian army; and Russian Deputy Defence Minister Alexander Fomin, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
In addition to the delegation members, four experts have also been designated to participate in the discussions.
Putin has also appointed specialists to assist during the talks. This team includes Alexander Zorin, first deputy head of the information department at the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces; Yelena Podobreyevskaya, deputy head of the Presidential Directorate for State Policy in the Humanitarian Area; Alexey Polishchuk, director of the Second Department of CIS countries at the Russian Foreign Ministry; and Viktor Shevtsov, deputy head of the Main Directorate for International Military Cooperation at the Russian Defence Ministry.
According to Kremlin Aide Yury Ushakov, negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv will recommence on May 15, building on the discussions from 2022 that were halted at the suggestion of then-British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
The Russian delegation heading to Istanbul aims to deliberate both technical and political matters.
In a statement made last Sunday, Putin emphasized the significance of resuming direct negotiations with Ukraine on May 15 in Istanbul.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed his intention to be in Turkey on Thursday and anticipates a meeting with Putin.
"I am eager to see who will represent Russia, and then I will determine the appropriate steps for Ukraine. Currently, their media signals are unconvincing," Zelensky articulated via social media late Wednesday night.
The Russian delegation will tackle political and technical subjects during the talks in Istanbul, confirmed Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov on Wednesday, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov indicated on Tuesday that the Russian delegation will arrive in Istanbul on Thursday, with the names of the negotiators to be disclosed once Putin reaches a decision.
Meanwhile, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met with his Ukrainian counterpart Andrii Sybiha on Wednesday in Antalya, Turkey, ahead of the anticipated Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Istanbul.
As reported by Turkey's state-run Anadolu Agency, Fidan assured Sybiha that Turkey is prepared to offer all forms of support, including facilitating talks, to promote peace.
Following the meeting, Sybiha shared on social media that he and Fidan thoroughly examined ways to progress a "meaningful peace process".
"I reaffirmed Ukraine's dedication to peace, our immediate and unconditional readiness for a complete and lasting ceasefire, as well as our offer for a high-level direct meeting between Ukraine and Russia," he noted.
Point of View
I believe that the recent developments in the Russia-Ukraine dialogue signify a critical juncture. The resumption of talks in Istanbul could pave the way for resolution, and it's essential for the global community to remain engaged and supportive of peace initiatives.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the talks in Istanbul?
The talks aim to address both technical and political issues between Russia and Ukraine, seeking a resolution to ongoing tensions.
Who is leading the Russian delegation?
The delegation is led by Russian Presidential Aide Vladimir Medinsky.
When did the previous talks take place?
The previous talks were held in 2022 and were suspended at the suggestion of then-British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
What support has Turkey offered regarding the talks?
Turkey has expressed its readiness to provide support, including facilitating discussions, to help achieve peace.
What was Ukrainian President Zelensky's response to the negotiations?
Zelensky indicated that he is waiting to see the Russian representatives before deciding on Ukraine's next steps.
