Kazakh president tells Putin it's time to freeze war against Ukraine
Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Russian President Vladimir Putin (photo: Getty Images)
Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, during a face-to-face meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, proposed freezing Russia's war against Ukraine and returning to the terms of the 2022 Istanbul peace talks, Russian media outlet Smotri (Look) reports.
What Tokayev said about war
He presented the proposal as his personal opinion and advice to Putin.
According to the Kazakh president, since he has allegedly been approached to serve as a mediator, he believes it is appropriate to offer a specific proposal for ending the war.
"Since people are approaching me, perhaps it is time to freeze this conflict and return to the Istanbul Formula 2.0, because significant progress was made there. Then, under guarantees from the major powers, including Russia, we could move toward the long-awaited peace," Tokayev said.
Kremlin talking points
The Kazakh leader also echoed several narratives that closely align with the Kremlin's rhetoric.
He described Ukrainians and Russians as brotherly peoples and expressed regret over the deaths of young people on both sides. He also suggested that the war is allegedly benefiting unnamed adversaries.
Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart #Tokayev, during a face-to-face meeting with Russian President Vladimir #Putin, proposed freezing Russia's war against #Ukraine and returning to the terms of the 2022 #Istanbul peace talks pic.twitter.com/bJsPwu9Bep
— RBC-Ukraine (@NewsUkraineRBC) July 25, 2026
"Sadly, of course, young people from the brotherly nations of Russia and Ukraine are dying, and all of this must be stopped because, in my view, what is happening is benefiting and pleasing our adversaries," Tokayev said.
Reaffirming alliance with Moscow
The Kazakh president also assured Putin that his country's position toward Russia remains unchanged.
"As for Kazakhstan's stance toward Russia, have no doubt that we have always regarded, and continue to regard, Russia as a great power, as I have already said. I say this at every international forum, and we remain committed to strategic cooperation with Russia and to our allied relationship, no matter how difficult that may be. Today's forum is further proof of that. Thank you," Tokayev added.
