Can the Russia-Ukraine Conflict Be Resolved Diplomatically?

Synopsis
In a critical address, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasizes the need for diplomatic efforts to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict. As talks resume in Istanbul, both nations aim for a long-term peace amidst ongoing tensions. Will these negotiations bring about a breakthrough?
Key Takeaways
- Diplomatic efforts are crucial to resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
- The ongoing talks in Istanbul aim for a long-term peace.
- Both nations remain committed to finding a diplomatic solution.
- Key leaders are involved in the negotiation process.
- Complexities surrounding the conflict continue to pose challenges.
Istanbul, May 15 (NationPress) — On Thursday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio articulated that the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine cannot be resolved through military means. He stated, “There is no military solution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. This war will conclude not via military action, but through diplomatic efforts.” Rubio made these comments upon his arrival in Antalya for an informal assembly of NATO foreign ministers.
He expressed hope that advancements in the negotiation process would occur soon, while acknowledging the complexities surrounding the resolution of the Ukrainian conflict.
Earlier, during a press briefing in the Kremlin on May 11, Russian President Vladimir Putin extended an invitation to the authorities in Kyiv to resume the direct negotiations that were halted in 2022, emphasizing that these discussions should occur without preconditions.
Maria Zakharova, the spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, confirmed that the Russian delegation has arrived in Istanbul for talks concerning Ukraine and is prepared for serious negotiations. “The Russian side is ready to negotiate earnestly. Our delegation is in Istanbul and is prepared for serious work,” she stated during a news briefing.
Zakharova reiterated that President Putin has proposed to restart direct dialogues in Istanbul on May 15 without delay or stipulations. As emphasized by the Russian President, the aim of these discussions is to, in his own words, “eliminate the root causes of the conflict and establish a long-term, enduring peace for the future.”
The Russian delegation, led by presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, comprises Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin, Igor Kostyukov from the Main Directorate of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, and Deputy Defence Minister Alexander Fomin. Notably, President Putin will not be attending the meeting.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump expressed optimism regarding the discussions expected to take place in Istanbul. “Marco (Rubio) and others are heading there, and we’ll see if we can achieve a resolution... The talks in Turkey later this week, likely on Thursday, could yield significant outcomes,” he remarked during a bilateral investment forum in Saudi Arabia, without providing further details.
Dmitry Peskov, spokesperson for the Kremlin, revealed that President Putin convened a meeting on the evening before the delegation's departure to discuss the arrangements for the talks with Ukraine set to occur in Istanbul.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also updated his followers on social media, indicating that he would consult with his team regarding the format of the meeting in Istanbul. “We held several discussions today about the format in Turkey. I am waiting to see who will represent Russia, and then I will determine Ukraine's next steps. As of now, the media signals from them are unconvincing,” he posted on X.