Russia’s delegation still unknown ahead of Istanbul talks
Photo: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan (Getty Images)
The format of negotiations between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul has not yet been determined, stated Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, according to TRT Haber.
Fidan said that Türkiye hopes for the participation of delegations from both Russia and the United States in the upcoming talks.
"Now we are witnessing an incredibly intense diplomatic movement. Many parties are holding talks with each other," said Fidan.
He noted that the final structure of the meeting has not yet been established. Still, he expressed optimism about the outcome of the upcoming negotiations and recalled that Ankara has consistently advocated for a swift end to the war since its very beginning.
"Certain delegations are currently being determined. The exact format has not yet been determined. But as you know, from the start, our position has been to bring this war to an end. As Türkiye, we want not only the war in Ukraine to end, but also the war in Gaza, the wars in Africa, and other conflicts in our region," the minister stated.
Peace talks in Istanbul
After the three-day truce announced by Vladimir Putin from May 8 to 11, Ukraine, together with its European allies from the Coalition of the Willing, issued an ultimatum to Russia: a full 30-day ceasefire should begin on May 12. In case of refusal, the European Union promised to impose a new package of tough sanctions on Moscow.
In response, Putin said that Russia does not recognize ultimatums and proposed to resume peace talks in Istanbul on May 15. Türkiye agreed to mediate these talks.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy agreed to visit Istanbul on May 15 because he does not want to offend US President Donald Trump. At the same time, Putin has not yet answered whether he is ready to personally attend the talks in Türkiye.
Read all about the possible talks in Türkiye in the material by RBC-Ukraine.
