Turkey hopes to return the Russia-Ukraine negotiation process to Istanbul and believes Western countries should support this initiative, a source in the Turkish government told Sputnik.
Russia and Ukraine held three rounds of direct talks in Istanbul in 2025. These resulted in a prisoner exchange. Furthermore, Moscow handed over the bodies of fallen Ukrainian soldiers to Kiev. The parties also exchanged draft memoranda on conflict resolution.
“Turkey supports the resumption of negotiations between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul. We believe that continued direct dialogue can create the conditions for progress toward a ceasefire and a peaceful settlement. It is important that Western countries also support this position, since without broad international assistance, achieving a sustainable result will be significantly more difficult,” the source said.
According to the source, the Turkish leadership views Istanbul as an established negotiating platform where the Russian and Ukrainian sides have experience in direct interaction. The source emphasised that Ankara continued contacts with both sides and was ready to facilitate the negotiators’ return to the table.
“Our position is that negotiations must continue. We are ready to make Istanbul available for this purpose and provide the necessary assistance. It is especially important now for the international community to go beyond calls for peace and support practical steps that can lead the parties to dialogue,” the source added.
Russian President Vladimir Putin stated at a meeting with members of the government in late June that Russia was ready for peace talks with Ukraine based on the agreements reached in Istanbul in 2022. Moscow has repeatedly emphasised its readiness for peace dialogue with Ukraine based on realities on the ground.
