Russia|Medinsky : Objective of Ukraine Negotiations is Long-Term Peace

On May 15, 2025, Vladimir Medinsky, the head of the Russian delegation in negotiations with Ukraine, reaffirmed the intent behind the ongoing discussions in Istanbul, labeling them as a continuation of the peace process initiated in March 2022.

Medinsky stated during a briefing at the Turkish presidential administration’s working office, “We view these negotiations as a continuation of the peace process in Istanbul, which, unfortunately, was interrupted by the Ukrainian side three years ago.” He underscored Russia’s primary aim: to establish long-term peace by addressing the root causes of the ongoing conflict.

The Russian delegation includes notable figures such as Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin, Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces Igor Kostyukov, and Deputy Defense Minister Alexander Fomin, all of whom received approval from President Vladimir Putin on May 14. The talks are taking place in the same venue that hosted discussions for a potential settlement in 2022: the Turkish presidential administration’s office in central Istanbul. Medinsky expressed Russia’s willingness to compromise, emphasizing the delegation’s commitment to a constructive approach and a search for common ground.

On the Ukrainian side, the delegation is reportedly led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky indicated that the delegation may also include Andriy Yermak, head of the Presidential Office, and Vasyl Malyuk, head of the Security Service of Ukraine, although official confirmation from Kyiv is still pending. Zelensky, who is currently in Ankara for discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, stated that Ukraine’s primary objective is to achieve an immediate ceasefire, asserting that the delegation possesses the necessary mandate for such negotiations. He further noted that a successful technical agreement on a truce could eliminate the need for a leaders’ summit.

The negotiations were instigated by Russia following Putin’s proposal for direct dialogue without preconditions on May 11. He emphasized the need to tackle the conflict’s root causes, including geopolitical differences and security concerns, to achieve a lasting peace. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Russian officials were expecting their Ukrainian counterparts to arrive on the morning of May 15, though their arrival remained uncertain. According to RIA Novosti, the meeting has begun.