Ukraine has confirmed its readiness to resume direct peace negotiations with Russia in Istanbul on Monday, according to a statement from Andrii Yermak, top adviser to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The announcement follows days of uncertainty over Ukraine’s participation in talks proposed by Moscow.
Yermak emphasized that Kyiv expects the Kremlin to deliver a promised memorandum outlining its position on ending the war, now in its fourth year. “We are ready to talk, but it must be a meaningful dialogue,” Yermak said. “Four days are enough for Russia to send us its draft proposals.”
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha echoed this sentiment during a joint press briefing in Kyiv with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. “We want to end this war in 2025. Whether it’s a 30-day, 50-day, or 100-day ceasefire, Ukraine is ready to discuss this directly with Russia,” Sybiha said.
Talks are scheduled for June 2, with both sides expected to send delegations. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed Russia’s participation, while Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reiterated Moscow’s intent to use the session to present its framework for peace.
While Ukraine is pushing for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire—backed by the US and European allies—Russia has so far held out for broader concessions.
Despite limited progress in previous meetings, a significant breakthrough occurred during the May 16 Istanbul talks, where both sides agreed to the largest prisoner swap of the conflict, releasing 1,000 captives each.
Fidan praised the move as proof negotiations can deliver tangible outcomes and suggested the Istanbul talks could pave the way for a potential summit involving Presidents Zelenskyy, Putin, and Trump.
“There’s a choice,” Fidan said. “Either we prolong the war, or we strive for peace before year’s end.”