Kremlin says Russia 'continues preparing' for talks in Istanbul

MOSCOW

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed on Tuesday that Russia is continuing preparations for peace talks with Ukraine, scheduled for Thursday in Istanbul.

“The Russian side continues its preparations for the talks, which are set to take place in Istanbul on Thursday. That’s all for now, no further comments,” Peskov stated during a press briefing in Moscow.

He did not disclose the names of the Russian delegation members, while Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and presidential aide Yury Ushakov are reportedly among the potential leaders of the delegation.

When asked whether he could name those who will represent Russia at the talks, Peskov replied: “No. As soon as the president deems it necessary, we will announce it.”

In response to a question about whether European representatives might have a seat at the negotiating table on the Ukrainian settlement, Peskov criticized Europe's stance, saying it sharply contrasts with that of Moscow and Washington.

"Europe remains firmly on Ukraine’s side and therefore cannot claim an impartial or balanced position. Its approach is largely military in nature, aimed at prolonging the conflict. This stands in stark contrast to the approach demonstrated, for example, in Moscow or Washington,” he said.

The proposal for unconditional talks in Istanbul was made by Russian President Vladimir Putin during a press conference in Moscow on Sunday. Later that day, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan confirmed Türkiye's readiness to host the meeting during a phone conversation with Putin.