Türkiye rushes to broker Ukraine-Russia peace talks in Istanbul as war drags on

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan held a phone call with President Rumen Radev of Bulgaria. The two leaders discussed bilateral relations between Türkiye and Bulgaria, as well as regional and global issues.

President Erdoğan said ties between the two countries are progressing thanks to key steps taken across various sectors. He added that efforts are ongoing to deepen cooperation in the defense industry and energy sector.

Ukraine-Russia meeting in Türkiye

At the same time, Erdoğan stated that efforts to end the war between Ukraine and Russia are ongoing, according to the President's Office.

"Türkiye endeavors to bring the parties together in Istanbul for the establishment of peace in the region," Erdoğan said.

New round of peace talks in Istanbul

Earlier this week, Russia proposed holding a second round of talks in Istanbul on Monday, June 2.

Ukraine's Defense Minister Rustem Umerov recently held a phone call with the head of the Russian delegation, Vladimir Medinsky. Umerov said Ukraine had submitted its version of a draft ceasefire agreement to the Russian side.

The Russian delegation, for its part, said it plans to present the document during the meeting on Monday.

Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak responded by saying Ukraine is ready for further talks with Russia. However, he stressed that Kyiv wants to receive the memorandum on a possible ceasefire before the meeting.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also commented on the situation.

He said the next meeting should not be held in vain and emphasized the need to clarify the agenda and prepare for the talks accordingly.

It is also known that the Russian delegation attending the next round of negotiations will be the same as in the first round.