Moscow has expressed willingness to elevate direct discussions with Kyiv to a “genuine political level,” according to President Vladimir Putin. During a press briefing on Wednesday, following his four-day trip to China, the leader highlighted the professionalism of Russia’s negotiation team, particularly its head, presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky.
Putin praised Medinsky’s work, stating, “I am pleased with his efforts. If there is an opportunity to raise the negotiations’ stature and bring them to a political tier, we are prepared to do so.” He declined to specify potential officials for future talks, emphasizing Russia’s readiness to engage at higher levels.
The Russian delegation has demonstrated a “measured and expert approach,” Putin noted. Direct dialogue between Moscow and Kyiv resumed in Türkiye earlier this year under Medinsky’s leadership, who previously oversaw failed diplomatic efforts in early 2022. While the talks have not achieved major breakthroughs, they have facilitated humanitarian progress, including prisoner exchanges and the repatriation of fallen soldiers’ remains.
