US Supports New Round of Ukraine-Russia Negotiations in Istanbul: Hope for Peace Amid War’s Hardship
Amid rising tensions and continued efforts to broker an end to the prolonged and devastating conflict between Ukraine and Russia, the United States has officially expressed its support for the initiative to hold a third round of diplomatic talks in Istanbul. The US Department of State emphasized that dialogue remains the only realistic way to achieve peace and a definitive ceasefire, highlighting the necessity of direct negotiations between the parties. State Department spokesperson Temmie Bruce announced during a briefing in Washington that the US actively backs the intentions of Ukraine and Russia to coordinate the upcoming negotiations. She added that for long-term peace to be realized, both sides must engage in open and honest discussions, respecting mutual interests and seeking compromises. According to her, only a constructive and frank conversation can bring an end to the war. According to information from the Turkish independent media outlet Türkçe, the next meeting is tentatively scheduled for July 24 or 25 in Istanbul. Key topics for discussion are expected to include humanitarian issues, prisoner exchanges, infrastructure protection, and the situation along Ukraine’s border regions. There is no official confirmation of the date yet, although Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky previously indicated that talks could take place on July 23. Meanwhile, Kremlin officials announced that delegations are planning to arrive on July 23, with negotiations set to commence on July 24. Preparations for the upcoming meeting are ongoing: technical arrangements are being finalized, security protocols are being worked out, and logistical issues are being addressed. It is expected that the negotiations will be held behind closed doors without media presence; however, official statements may follow afterward. During the previous Istanbul negotiations on June 2, both parties agreed to exchange severely wounded military personnel and bodies of the fallen—6,000 bodies on each side—as well as to transfer prisoners under the age of 25. The first round of talks took place on May 16 at the Dolmabahçe Palace, with all sides now striving for maximum transparency in their efforts to resolve the conflict that has brought destruction and suffering to countless civilians.