Russia and Ukraine delegations to meet in Turkey for Peace Talks

Delegations from Russia and Ukraine are heading to Turkey for renewed peace talks aimed at ending the long-running conflict, as both sides show willingness to explore diplomatic solutions. While Russian President Vladimir Putin is not attending in person, the Kremlin has emphasized the seriousness of the negotiations, calling them a “restart” of efforts previously held in Istanbul.

Russia’s delegation, led by presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, includes senior officials and technical experts. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova confirmed their arrival in Istanbul on Thursday. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is also expected to arrive in Ankara, along with key members of the Ukrainian government.

Zelenskyy had earlier invited Putin to meet directly, but Kremlin officials noted that the talks will proceed through official envoys, a standard practice in high-stakes diplomacy. Putin held consultations Wednesday night with top officials, including Defense Minister Andrei Belousov and National Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu, in preparation for the negotiations.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan expressed optimism, calling the talks a “window of opportunity” after years of suffering. Discussions are expected to continue in a presidential office overlooking the Bosporus.

U.S. President Donald Trump, who has been actively involved in recent diplomatic efforts, had encouraged a direct Zelenskyy-Putin meeting but said he was unsurprised by Putin’s absence. “I didn’t think it was possible for Putin to go if I’m not there,” Trump remarked from Doha.

Despite Putin’s absence, the Kremlin has reiterated its support for a political resolution. Russian officials have emphasized that Moscow remains open to constructive dialogue, but cautioned that meaningful negotiations require reciprocal seriousness from Kyiv and its Western allies.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha held talks with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Senator Lindsey Graham in Antalya, where NATO foreign ministers are discussing future security priorities. Sybiha called on Russia to respond to Ukraine’s diplomatic overtures and reaffirmed support for U.S.-mediated peace efforts.

Some Western officials expressed frustration over Putin not attending in person. However, observers note that both sides’ willingness to resume dialogue in Turkey is a positive sign after years of deadlock.