Russia and Ukraine Prepare for New Peace Negotiations in Istanbul

Amid ongoing hostilities, Russia and Ukraine are set to engage in another round of peace talks in Istanbul, but prospects for resolution remain grim.

With meetings planned for Wednesday, Ukrainian and Russian officials will converge in Istanbul, yet both sides have managed expectations, hinting that no significant outcomes are anticipated from this third round of discussions since negotiations resumed under the guidance of the Trump administration in May. Kremlin spokesman Dmitri S. Peskov stated, “There is no basis to expect any magical breakthroughs,” reflecting a cautious stance regarding the ongoing conflict.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Rustem Umerov, the chief negotiator and head of the National Security and Defense Council, will participate in the upcoming talks, which Turkey has officially confirmed. Details from the Russian side remain sparse, with Mr. Peskov acknowledging the meeting but not revealing specifics about the dates or representatives involved.

As both nations prepare for the discussions, the atmosphere is charged with skepticism, with calls for dialogue overshadowed by entrenched positions. This ongoing cycle of negotiation raises questions about the future of their long-standing conflict and whether these efforts can prioritize a sustainable peace.