Historic Reunion at Dolmabahce Palace
After more than three years, Russian and Ukrainian negotiators sat face-to-face in Istanbul’s iconic Dolmabahce Palace, with Ukraine’s team in camouflage meeting Russia’s in suits across a grand wood table overlooking the Bosphorus. Live television captured the moment the two sides shook off the silence that has defined their last encounter in March 2022.
Ukraine’s Terms for Peace
Kyiv’s delegation opened talks with clear demands: a 30-day ceasefire, the return of children Ukraine accuses Russia of abducting, and an exchange of all prisoners. These priorities set a straightforward test for Moscow’s commitment to ending the conflict.
Russia’s Calculated Diplomacy
Moscow signaled it is ready to discuss a pause, but not without concerns that a ceasefire could give Ukraine time to regroup, mobilize additional troops, and secure more weapons from Western backers.
Global Watchers Weigh In
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Trump’s Ukraine envoy Keith Kellogg joined other diplomats in Istanbul, while external experts cautioned that breakthrough deals may still be out of reach based on the mid-level ranks of the negotiators.
Where Do We Go From Here?
With both sides expressing willingness to talk and a host of international figures lending support, Istanbul’s talks could chart a path to renewed diplomacy—or simply highlight how much work lies ahead.
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Russians and Ukrainians meet in Istanbul for first talks in 3 years
cgtn.com
