New Delhi, Jul 22: Russia and Ukraine are set to resume peace negotiations in Istanbul on Wednesday, according to Ukrainian officials as reported by BBC. The meeting is part of ongoing efforts to de-escalate a war that has stretched on for over three years. The talks follow Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s weekend proposal for renewed dialogue, amid preparations for another prisoner exchange. The upcoming session will be held at the same venue in Turkey where earlier negotiations in May and June failed to yield a breakthrough.
While Kyiv has confirmed Wednesday as the date for the meeting, Russian state media suggested the discussions might extend over two days, starting Thursday.
The Kremlin has yet to issue a formal statement regarding its participation, and expectations remain low for immediate progress, reports BBC, Russian officials have indicated that fundamental differences persist between the two sides.
The resumption of talks comes in the wake of intensified Russian drone and missile strikes on Ukrainian cities, which have led to a surge in civilian casualties. In response, the United States has pledged additional military assistance to Ukraine and issued a fresh warning to Moscow. President Donald Trump recently threatened severe sanctions against Russia if hostilities are not halted within 50 days. Despite international pressure and speculation about a possible meeting between Presidents Zelensky and Vladimir Putin, Russian officials have signalled little optimism.
