Russia and Ukraine in “Istanbul-Style” Talks Amid U.S. Pressure
Russia and Ukraine Hold “Istanbul-Style” Talks Amid U.S. Pressure
In a new development aimed at ending a war that has continued for over three years, a face-to-face meeting was held between the heads of the Russian and Ukrainian delegations, Vladimir Medinsky and Rustem Umerov, at the Çırağan Palace in Istanbul, according to the Russian news agency TASS. This meeting marks the third round of direct talks between the two sides, as international efforts intensify to push for a diplomatic resolution.
Although both delegations were confirmed to be present at the venue, journalists were unable to document their arrival, reflecting the confidential and sensitive nature of the negotiations. The Kremlin described this round as “extremely difficult,” noting that discussions would focus on issues outlined in two previous memorandums of understanding between the parties.
According to Russian sources, the composition of the Russian delegation remains unchanged. The Ukrainian delegation is headed by former Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, known for his negotiation experience, and includes representatives from Ukraine’s security, diplomatic, and presidential offices.
The talks come amid growing Western pressure. U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly given Russia a 50-day deadline to reach an agreement with Kyiv, warning of new sanctions if the negotiation track fails.
Despite previous negotiation rounds held in May and June, no major breakthrough has been achieved so far, aside from agreements on prisoner exchanges and the repatriation of remains. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed interest in paving the way for a direct meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin to “effectively end the war,” though both sides acknowledge that significant disagreements remain.
