Diplomatic Talks on Ukraine Crisis Resume in Istanbul

The Ukrainian delegation has arrived in Istanbul for discussions aimed at establishing a ceasefire with Russia, as confirmed by the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry on Monday morning. Just before these anticipated negotiations, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and his U.S. counterpart Marco Rubio held a phone conversation, according to Russian state media.

The second round of negotiations is scheduled to commence at noon (CEST) at the Çiragan Palace, as stated by the Turkish Foreign Ministry.

During their conversation, Lavrov and Rubio exchanged views on various initiatives regarding a political resolution of the ongoing Ukraine crisis. The discussion reportedly included plans to revive direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.

Both nations have announced the deployment of their negotiating teams to the Turkish metropolis. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy indicated on social media that the goal of the meeting is to achieve a comprehensive and unconditional ceasefire, the release of prisoners, and the return of abducted children. The Ukrainian delegation will be led by Defense Minister Rustem Umjerow, as noted by Zelenskyy.

Additionally, Ukrainian negotiators in Istanbul are expected to consult with diplomatic representatives from Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and other European countries, as confirmed by Berlin in alignment with statements from U.S. Special Envoy Keith Kellogg.

This marks the second instance of direct talks between Russia and Ukraine since May 16, following a three-year hiatus. During the previous meeting in Istanbul, little progress was made towards a ceasefire, although both sides did agree on a prisoner exchange that has since been carried out.