By Anthony Marcus for Eurasia Business News, May 31, 2025. Article no. 1533.

The Kremlin has confirmed that direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine will take place in Istanbul on June 2, without the participation of the European Union or other third parties. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that the Russian delegation, led by Kremlin aide Vladimir Medinsky, will be ready to engage in talks focused on discussing terms for a temporary ceasefire.

Ukraine has not yet officially committed to attending the talks, insisting on receiving in advance a document outlining Russia’s proposals and conditions for ceasefire and conflict resolution. Ukrainian officials emphasize that for the negotiations to be meaningful, the Russian side must provide this memorandum beforehand so that the Ukrainian delegation has the authority to discuss relevant issues. Kyiv remains cautious and has expressed dissatisfaction with previous Russian delegations that lacked sufficient mandate to finalize agreements.

Turkey is facilitating the talks, having hosted the first round of direct Russia-Ukraine negotiations on May 16, which resulted in limited progress but included a prisoner exchange of 1000 for 1000 basis. These were the first direct talks in over three years, lasting under two hours. Turkish officials remain optimistic about the peace process continuing in Istanbul and potentially leading to a high-level meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

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The June 2 talks in Istanbul are planned as direct bilateral negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, excluding the EU, with Russia ready to present its peace proposals, while Ukraine awaits receipt of these proposals before confirming participation.

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© Copyright 2025 – Eurasia Business News. Article no. 1533.