Russia and Ukraine Resume Direct Peace Talks in Turkey After Three-Year Hiatus

Report by Safarti Tarjuman International Desk

Russia and Ukraine have resumed direct peace negotiations for the first time in three years, with delegations from both countries meeting in Istanbul on Wednesday. The talks are being hosted by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who has positioned Turkey as a neutral mediator in the ongoing conflict. This diplomatic engagement follows growing international pressure to de-escalate the war, which has caused widespread devastation across Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Istanbul ahead of the discussions, expressing openness to all dialogue formats. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin did not attend the talks, instead sending a delegation led by aide Vladimir Medinsky and Deputy Defense Minister Alexander Fomin. The absence of top-level Russian leadership has raised doubts about Moscow’s seriousness regarding peace negotiations.

The talks are expected to focus on a proposed 30-day ceasefire, which is strongly backed by the United States. President Donald Trump has indicated he may attend the summit if President Putin joins. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and special envoy Steve Witkoff are present in Istanbul to represent American interests. The Biden administration previously supported similar efforts, but Trump’s direct involvement marks a notable shift in Washington’s approach.

Ukraine has reiterated that any agreement must protect its territorial integrity and national sovereignty. Russia, however, has yet to outline its conditions. The gap in expectations remains wide, although the resumption of talks offers a potential diplomatic breakthrough.

Turkey has repeatedly offered to mediate between the two nations, citing its balanced diplomatic ties with both Moscow and Kyiv. President Erdoğan stated that his government remains fully committed to supporting peace and stability in the region.