Kyiv, 2 June 2025: In a diplomatic breakthrough, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has confirmed that Ukraine will send a high-level delegation to Istanbul on June 2 for direct peace negotiations with the Russian Federation. The development comes amid growing international calls for a ceasefire and a renewed diplomatic push to resolve the prolonged conflict.
Peace Talks Under Turkish Mediation
The upcoming meeting will take place under the mediation of Türkiye, which has maintained relations with both Kyiv and Moscow throughout the war. The government of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is facilitating the talks, aiming to provide a neutral venue and a platform for substantive dialogue.
“These discussions in Istanbul represent an important step toward restoring peace. Türkiye stands ready to support any genuine diplomatic process,” President Erdoğan stated in Ankara.
Ukraine’s Delegation and Core Objectives
According to the Office of the President, Ukraine’s delegation will include:
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Senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
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Representatives of the Ministry of Defense
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Advisers from the Office of the President of Ukraine
President Zelenskyy emphasized that the talks will be guided by Ukraine’s 10-point Peace Formula, which includes:
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Immediate and full withdrawal of Russian troops from all Ukrainian territories
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Restoration of Ukraine’s 1991 borders
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Safe return of all prisoners of war (POWs) and civilians
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Security assurances for nuclear power plants, particularly Zaporizhzhia
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Reopening and protection of Black Sea grain corridors
“We are not against dialogue, but Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity are non-negotiable,” said Zelenskyy in a televised address.
Russia Confirms Attendance, Awaits Ground for Negotiation
The Russian Federation has confirmed its participation. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin will reportedly lead Moscow’s team. While the Kremlin has expressed willingness to engage, it remains firm on what it calls “on-ground realities,” a phrase often used to reference Russian control over parts of Eastern and Southern Ukraine.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated, “We enter the dialogue with realistic expectations. The aim is to reach de-escalation, but only within the framework of acceptable security guarantees for Russia.”
International Support and Observers
Representatives from the United Nations, European Union, and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) are expected to observe the negotiations.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the development, saying, “This diplomatic effort must be protected and encouraged. Even small humanitarian agreements can build momentum toward a larger resolution.”
Potential Agenda: Humanitarian Corridors and Energy Security
Experts predict that the first round of talks may not yield an immediate ceasefire but could result in agreements on:
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Civilians’ evacuation from high-conflict zones
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Safe transit for Ukrainian grain exports
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Power grid stabilization and nuclear safety protocols
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Resumption of cross-border energy supplies
“Even partial agreements, like securing Black Sea routes or POW exchanges, would be meaningful outcomes,” said Dr. Oksana Kovalchuk, a Kyiv-based geopolitical analyst.
A Step Toward Peace or Another Stalemate?
The diplomatic community remains cautiously optimistic. While hopes are high, the deep mistrust between Kyiv and Moscow, fueled by ongoing hostilities and war crimes allegations, casts a shadow over the negotiations.
President Zelenskyy concluded, “We owe it to our people to explore every path to peace. But any peace must be just, lasting, and respect the values of a free Ukraine.”
For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.
For more updates on delegation talks, stay informed on Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.
