Ukrainian political scientist names only threat to Ukraine-Russia talks in Istanbul
Photo: Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (RBC-Ukraine collage)
The potential negotiations between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul could be influenced by the military situation. This concerns possible Russian strikes on Ukrainian territory, political scientist Volodymyr Fesenko stated in a comment to the RBC-Ukraine YouTube channel.
"Even in Russia, they are talking about the fact that another factor that will affect the possibility of negotiations in Istanbul, whether they will happen or not, is the military situation," he emphasized.
According to the political scientist, if by May 15, Russia launches a massive missile strike on Ukraine or uses Oreshnik to attack Ukrainian territory, this will "make negotiations in Istanbul meaningless."
Fesenko pointed out that this should be clearly communicated to US President Donald Trump. In particular, French President Emmanuel Macron can convey such a condition to the American leader, as they are constantly in touch.
In his opinion, such conditions should also be communicated to Russia - any harsh actions on their part would derail the negotiations.
"Theoretically, this (massive missile strike by Russia – ed.) is possible, and unfortunately, practically it is also possible. However, such actions by Russia could disrupt the negotiations in Istanbul. It seems to me that this is the only thing that could derail them," he added.
Potential negotiations
The idea of negotiations in Istanbul on May 15 was initially proposed by Russia. After that, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the corresponding proposal - he wants direct negotiations with Russian leader Vladimir Putin.
US President Donald Trump has also suggested that he might participate in the dialogue between the two leaders.
However, it is still unclear whether a meeting between Zelenskyy and Putin will take place - the Russian side remains silent.
