Peace Talks Between Russia and Ukraine Begin in Istanbul

Istanbul, May 16, 2025 — Delegations from Russia and Ukraine have convened for negotiations at the historic Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul making the first direct discussions since March 2022. The talks, mediated by Turkey and supported by representatives from the United States, aim to address the ongoing conflict, with a particular focus on achieving a ceasefire.

Leading the Russian delegation is presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, accompanied by notable figures such as Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin, Chief of the Main Directorate of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces Igor Kostyukov, and Deputy Defense Minister Alexander Fomin. On the Ukrainian side, the delegation, authorized by President Volodymyr Zelensky, is headed by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov and comprises 12 members, including First Deputy Foreign Minister Serhiy Kyslytsya, Deputy Head of the Security Service of Ukraine Oleksandr Poklad, and Deputy Head of the Main Intelligence Directorate Vadym Skibitsky.

Tensions are palpable as the negotiations unfold. President Zelensky, while in Ankara, described the Russian delegation as a “sham.” In response, Medinsky asserted that Russia views these negotiations as a continuation of the dialogue interrupted in 2022, aimed at addressing the root causes of the conflict.

The impetus for this round of talks came after Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed to revive the Istanbul format on May 11. While Zelensky expressed willingness to engage in dialogue, he insisted on Putin’s presence, a request that remains unfulfilled.

The outcome of these discussions could have far-reaching implications for the region and beyond.