After more than a year without direct dialogue, Russia and Ukraine will meet in Istanbul, Türkiye, on May 15. President Vladimir Putin approved the Russian lineup, setting the stage for the first face-to-face talks since March 2022.
Who’s Attending?
The Russian delegation includes presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, who took part in 2022 talks; Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin; Igor Kostyukov, chief of the main directorate of the general staff of the Russian army; Deputy Defense Minister Alexander Fomin; and four designated experts.
Details on Ukraine’s team remain under wraps, but Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reportedly travelled to Türkiye. He previously said he would only join negotiations if President Putin attends.
The U.S. is also on board, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and senior envoys Steve Witkoff and Keith Kellogg present in Istanbul. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha met with Rubio to share Zelenskyy’s peace vision and align positions for the critical week ahead.
What’s on the Agenda?
The talks aim to resume direct negotiations and explore paths toward a lasting peace. With Ukraine pushing its peace vision and the U.S. calling this a “key opportunity” to achieve peace, all eyes are on whether this meeting can inject momentum into stalled diplomacy.
Why It Matters
This summit isn’t just about two countries—it’s a focal point for global markets, energy security and regional stability. For young global citizens, entrepreneurs and changemakers, the outcome could signal shifts in geopolitics that touch business, tech and human rights worldwide.
Reference(s):
Russia-Ukraine talks: Who will attend? What will they discuss?
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