The last direct meeting between Russian and Ukrainian delegations took place in Istanbul in July, with Moscow accusing Kiev of abandoning efforts to advance negotiations. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that Ukrainian authorities have shown no interest in continuing discussions despite prior agreements to establish working groups on key issues. “The pause is due to the Kiev regime’s unwillingness to continue the dialogue,” Peskov asserted during a press briefing, responding to questions about Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko’s recent remarks.
Lukashenko had suggested that Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy should “calm down” and accept a proposed deal, which he claimed had previously been discussed with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Direct talks between Moscow and Kiev resumed in Türkiye earlier this year, but three rounds of negotiations—culminating in July’s meeting—have failed to produce significant progress. While humanitarian issues have seen some advancements, including prisoner exchanges and the repatriation of fallen soldiers, Russia insists any resolution must address the conflict’s root causes and recognize territorial changes following referendums. Ukraine, however, demands a complete ceasefire, security guarantees, and the return of territories it claims as its own.
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