Russian and Ukrainian negotiators have begun a new round of face-to-face peace talks in Istanbul, aiming to break a long diplomatic deadlock in the three-year conflict that has devastated large parts of Ukraine and strained global security.
Hosted by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan at the historic Ciragan Palace on the banks of the Bosphorus, the discussions mark the second time the warring sides have met directly since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Delegations from both countries were seated at separate tables in the ornate palace, with Turkish officials occupying the central position.
In opening remarks, Mr Fidan urged both parties to engage in “constructive dialogue” that could narrow the deep divisions between them. He also credited U.S. President Donald Trump with helping catalyze the talks. “Trump’s determination to establish peace has opened a new window of opportunity,” he said.
The negotiations follow a dramatic escalation in hostilities. Just a day earlier, Ukraine claimed responsibility for a major drone operation deep inside Russian territory, damaging as many as 40 strategic bombers. The long-planned strike, estimated to have caused up to $7 billion in damage, was reportedly executed with drones smuggled into Russia months in advance.
Despite the diplomatic push, the gulf between the two sides remains wide. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has repeated calls for a full and unconditional ceasefire, the release of prisoners, and the return of children allegedly abducted during the conflict. He also proposed a direct meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying “the key issues can only be resolved by the leaders.”
The Kremlin, however, has rebuffed that suggestion, maintaining that any such meeting could only happen after substantial progress in lower-level negotiations. Russia continues to demand that Ukraine renounce NATO ambitions, accept military restrictions, and make territorial concessions—conditions Kyiv and its Western allies have firmly rejected.
Leading the Russian delegation is Vladimir Medinsky, a close aide to President Putin known for his hardline views. Ukraine is represented by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, who has faced domestic scrutiny but is regarded as a capable negotiator.
Western diplomatic advisors from Germany, France, and the UK are present in Istanbul in support of the Ukrainian side, according to officials in Berlin.
Meanwhile, fighting on the ground continues. Russian forces have made gains in the northeastern Sumy region, while ballistic missile strikes hit the Kharkiv area on Sunday, injuring civilians and damaging infrastructure.
Though significant obstacles remain, observers say the resumption of direct talks signals a potential shift in both sides’ approach—though whether it leads to lasting peace remains uncertain.
