Russia Eager for Istanbul Talks, Ukraine Demands Peace Conditions First

The Kremlin is signaling its readiness for a second round of ceasefire negotiations with Ukraine in Istanbul next week, with spokesman Dmitry Peskov expressing appreciation for US mediation. The Russian delegation is reportedly set to arrive in the Turkish city, prepared to engage in discussions with Ukrainian counterparts from Monday morning onward.
However, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has outlined a clear precondition for Kyiv’s participation: Russia must first present its detailed proposals for a peace deal. This firm stance from Ukraine suggests a desire to avoid unproductive talks and ensure that any diplomatic engagement is based on substantive plans. Peskov confirmed that Russia is working on a list of conditions for a temporary truce, though these details will not be publicly shared.
A key reported demand from Russia for a cessation of hostilities is a written assurance from Western leaders to halt NATO’s eastward expansion. This issue was notably addressed by Donald Trump’s envoy to Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, who conceded the fairness of Russia’s concerns regarding NATO’s growth and stated the US does not wish for Ukraine to join the alliance. The Kremlin welcomed Kellogg’s remarks, interpreting them as a positive sign of Washington’s understanding of Russia’s security perspectives and appreciating its continued mediating influence.