Are Ukraine and Russia Ready for Peace Talks in Istanbul?
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Synopsis
As Ukraine and Russia gear up for crucial peace discussions, President Zelensky's meeting with Erdogan could shape the future of the conflict. Their dialogue in Ankara emphasizes the importance of negotiation in achieving stability. Will this effort lead to a breakthrough in the ongoing war? Stay tuned for updates.
Key Takeaways
- High-level discussions are taking place to address the ongoing conflict.
- Zelensky's meeting with Erdogan is pivotal in shaping future negotiations.
- Turkey's role as a mediator is crucial for dialogue between Ukraine and Russia.
- Previous peace talks in Istanbul were unsuccessful, highlighting the challenges ahead.
- The US is supportive of initiatives aimed at achieving a just peace.
Istanbul, May 16 (NationPress) Delegates from Ukraine and Russia are set to engage in peace negotiations, as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky readies for discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara.
Upon his arrival in Ankara on Thursday, Zelensky informed reporters that Ukraine's delegation comprises high-ranking officials from the Foreign Ministry, Defence Ministry, military, and intelligence sectors.
"We have a top-level delegation," he reiterated, while mentioning that the specifics of the Russian delegation had not yet been disclosed.
Zelensky stressed that the decisions regarding the subsequent phases of the negotiations would be determined post his talks with Erdogan.
"We need to clarify the level of the Russian delegation (we're engaging with) and what authority they possess," he stated.
The upcoming discussions follow a proposal from Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday to recommence direct talks with Ukraine in Istanbul on May 15.
Zelensky confirmed his attendance and expressed optimism about a potential meeting with Putin, although the Russian leader has yet to arrive.
In a related note, US President Donald Trump, while speaking in Doha, Qatar on Thursday, mentioned he might join the talks in Istanbul on Friday.
"If something (a development) occurs and it seems suitable, I might attend on Friday," he remarked.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who was present in Antalya for a NATO Foreign Ministers' meeting, stated that Trump endorses any effort that could lead to a fair peace.
"There is no military resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict," Rubio asserted.
"We hope to see advancements in the upcoming days."
Earlier on Thursday, Zelensky and Erdogan conducted a nearly three-hour private meeting in the Turkish capital, in advance of the anticipated peace dialogue between Ukrainian and Russian representatives in Istanbul.
Zelensky had previously met Erdogan in Ankara in February, where the two leaders reportedly deliberated Turkey's potential role in a peacekeeping force following a ceasefire.
Erdogan has sustained strong connections with both Kyiv and Moscow throughout the extensive conflict, establishing Turkey as a mediator in the war.
In 2022, Istanbul hosted the unsuccessful -- and, to date, the sole -- direct peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia since the full-scale invasion.
Additionally, Turkey facilitated a Black Sea grain deal that permitted secure maritime shipments until Russia withdrew from the agreement in 2023.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the delicate balance of diplomacy and negotiation. The potential for peace talks offers a glimmer of hope, yet the complexities of the conflict demand careful navigation. Our commitment is to provide accurate, unbiased coverage that reflects the voices of those affected by this war.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key objectives of the peace talks?
The primary objectives include establishing a ceasefire, addressing territorial disputes, and fostering diplomatic relations between Ukraine and Russia.
Who is participating in the Ukrainian delegation?
The Ukrainian delegation consists of high-ranking officials from the Foreign Ministry, Defence Ministry, military, and intelligence agencies.
What role is Turkey playing in these discussions?
Turkey is acting as a mediator, having maintained strong ties with both Ukraine and Russia, and facilitating dialogue between the two nations.
What was the outcome of the previous peace talks in Istanbul?
The previous talks in Istanbul in 2022 were unsuccessful, marking the only direct negotiations between Ukraine and Russia since the full-scale invasion.
How has the US reacted to the ongoing negotiations?
The US has expressed support for any initiative that could lead to a fair resolution, emphasizing that there is no military solution to the conflict.
