Medinsky Highlights Significant Differences in Russian and Ukrainian Positions Following Turkish Talks
Following a recent meeting, a thorough analysis of the carefully drafted peace memorandums revealed a substantial gap between the positions of Russia and Ukraine. Vladimir Medinsky, head of the Russian delegation involved in negotiations held in Turkey on July 23, openly stated that the documents agreed upon show considerable divergence in approaches to resolving the conflict. According to him, the two sides have not yet reached a mutual understanding, with their positions on the memoranda being 'quite far apart.' Medinsky emphasized that the parties agreed to continue dialogue and maintain contacts both at the delegation level and through working groups. The main focus remains on implementing the agreements, with some parts already fulfilled and others still in progress. Specifically, he noted that Russia regards the return of residents of the Kursk region, who, according to Russia, were evacuated by Ukrainian forces, as ongoing, though some cases remain unresolved. Sources - Russian outlet Meduza confirms that the sides are conducting exchanges of critically injured soldiers at the front lines, a process that will persist. Furthermore, discussions about the return of Ukrainian children, whom Russia claims were deported, are ongoing: according to Russian officials, the list of 339 Ukrainian children has been processed, with some already repatriated and others still under work. Media reports also indicate that Ukraine proposed a summit involving Turkish President Erdogan and U.S. President Trump by the end of August, aiming to achieve more concrete results in peace negotiations and to advance the resolution of the ongoing conflict.