The Kremlin has confirmed that negotiations between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul are being planned with consideration of the outcomes of last year’s talks
According to official sources, the upcoming meeting between representatives of Moscow and Kyiv in Istanbul will take into account the results of negotiations that were interrupted in 2022. This emphasizes not only the parties’ desire to return to diplomatic discussions but also their understanding of the importance of carefully analyzing past dialogues, unresolved issues, and the current situation on the frontlines. This was stated by Yuri Ushakov, Assistant to the President of Russia, during a program on a federal TV channel, as quoted by the information agency Interfax-Ukraine. In his comments, he noted that the negotiations in Istanbul are to be conducted with regard to the outcomes of last year's discussions, which were interrupted due to circumstances and the current situation on the front. “Taking this into account, considering, naturally, the real situation,” he emphasized. According to him, such an approach is necessary in order to achieve constructive dialogue and progress, taking into account all previous agreements and challenges. Earlier, media reports appeared regarding the possible meeting of Ukrainian and Russian representatives in the Turkish capital. On May 11, Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a video address, stated that he was prepared to hold direct dialogue with Kyiv in Istanbul this coming Thursday, May 15. This sparked significant interest and speculation about the feasibility of such plans, given the tense situation on the front and previous attempts to engage in negotiations. The response from the Ukrainian leadership was also unequivocally optimistic. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that Russia might be starting to consider ending hostilities, calling this prospect "a good sign." However, he also noted that the conflict remains difficult and fierce, and nothing is finally decided yet. Zelensky also called for a swift return to diplomatic means of resolving the situation and reminded that any negotiations must be based on the principles of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Amid these developments, experts and analysts are contemplating possible scenarios for the situation’s development. Will the consultations in Istanbul lead to de-escalation and a return to diplomatic dialogue, or will they be another attempt to create an illusion of peace? These questions remain open. Overall, commentators emphasize that any progress depends on the willingness of the parties to consider the outcomes of previous negotiations and the realities of the ongoing war. Thus, official statements and valuable information from October last year demonstrate that the issue of diplomacy with Russia remains on the agenda. Although direct negotiations and the resumption of dialogue appear possible, the reality is still far from a final resolution of the conflict. However, the plans to hold consultations in Istanbul show the parties’ willingness, if not for peaceful solutions, at least for seeking ways to reduce tensions and find compromises. This could become a first step on the path toward long-awaited peace and stability in the region.