Peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine might restart in Istanbul as early as Tuesday, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov.
“Yes, delegations are leaving for Turkey today. At a daily briefing in Moscow on Monday, Peskov said, “We expect that this (the meeting of the two representatives) may hypothetically happen tomorrow.”
He emphasized the importance of the meeting being held in person, but he did not comment on the progress.
“We can’t and won’t discuss progress just now.” The fact that face-to-face conversations were determined to continue is unquestionably significant. But, for the time being, we’re sticking to our policy of not disclosing any details about the negotiations. We believe that this will simply serve to sabotage the negotiations. process,” he said.
“The face-to-face format allows for more concentrated, meaningful content negotiations; yet, we are unable to report any notable achievements or breakthroughs thus far.”
The official went on to say that the talks in Istanbul do not indicate a meeting between the Russian and Ukrainian presidents, and that the issue of a captive exchange is also off the table.
On February 24, Russia dispatched troops to Ukraine in what it described as a “special military operation.” The war has sparked international outcry, prompting Western countries to impose severe financial penalties on Russia.
So far, Kyiv and Moscow have held multiple rounds of negotiations, with the status of Crimea, the destiny of Ukraine’s breakaway Donetsk and Luhansk regions, and the country’s bid to join NATO at the top of the agenda.
Turkiye celebrated its 10th anniversary on March 10th.made headlines worldwide for hosting the Russian and Ukrainian foreign ministers in the southern Turkish city of Antalya, the highest-level meeting of the two sides since the war began, on Feb. 24.
Turkiye has won widespread praise for its efforts to end the war, helped by its unique position in having friendly relations with both Russia and Ukraine.
Meanwhile, Peskov said the Kremlin is aware of a footage being circulated online in which captured Russian soldiers are being shot in the legs allegedly by Ukrainian forces, saying those involved in the inhuman actions should be held accountable.