Russia Ready to Negotiate with Ukraine in Istanbul

Russia is ready to continue negotiations with Ukraine in Istanbul at any time; however, Kyiv has not yet responded to Moscow's previous proposals. This was stated to TASS by Alexey Ivanov, the acting charge d'affaires of Russia in Turkey.

“The Russian side has repeatedly emphasized that it is ready for direct negotiations with the Ukrainian side. Our Turkish partners also always mention that the Istanbul platform is open for us,” Ivanov said during the 16th Asian Conference of the Valdai International Discussion Club held in Istanbul.

He noted that if Kyiv shows political will, Moscow is prepared for negotiations at any time. Ivanov recalled that in previous phases, the Russian side presented a number of proposals, including the formation of three online working groups.

“Unfortunately, we have not yet received a positive response to these initiatives from Ukraine,” he remarked.