Russia and Ukraine are set to resume peace talks in Istanbul, reviewing draft memorandums and discussing a possible ceasefire. Talks will focus on safe Black Sea navigation and are supported by Turkish mediation.
The Kremlin announced on Friday that Russia and Ukraine are set to resume peace negotiations in Istanbul, where both sides are expected to review draft peace memorandums. These discussions may lay the groundwork for a potential ceasefire and pave the way toward resolving the long-running conflict that has destabilized Eastern Europe since early 2022.
Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that the Russian delegation is scheduled to arrive in Istanbul over the weekend and is prepared to begin formal talks with Ukraine on Monday morning. Among the key agenda items will be the exchange and review of draft peace memorandums from both sides, indicating a structured approach to the dialogue.
Crucially, Peskov highlighted that the negotiations will also explore the terms of a temporary truce. Ensuring safe navigation in the Black Sea is expected to feature prominently in the talks, given the region’s critical importance for global grain and energy transport. The potential establishment of maritime corridors could have far-reaching implications for international trade and food security.
On the Ukrainian side, Defence Minister Rustem Umerov stated that Kyiv has already submitted its draft peace memorandum to the head of the Russian delegation and is now awaiting Russia’s version, which is expected to be delivered before the Monday meeting. This reciprocal exchange marks a rare moment of procedural alignment between the two countries.
The diplomatic effort is being supported by Turkey, which has played an ongoing mediating role in the conflict. On Friday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held a phone discussion about the upcoming negotiations. Fidan, who visited Russia earlier in the week, was in Kyiv on Friday, where he briefed Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha on Russia’s position and intentions concerning the peace process.
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Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova also confirmed that Moscow’s delegation will bring with it a new draft memorandum along with additional proposals for a ceasefire. High-level contacts involving Russian, Ukrainian, and even U.S. officials may be possible depending on the progress of these negotiations, Peskov added.
The upcoming meeting in Istanbul marks the first direct engagement between the two nations since May 16, and only the second since March 2022. Although previous talks ended without a ceasefire agreement, the current momentum, coupled with international mediation efforts, offers a glimmer of hope for a de-escalation of hostilities.
