Russia has expressed readiness to resume direct negotiations with Ukraine, marking a potential step forward in efforts to find a diplomatic solution to the ongoing conflict. However, the Kremlin states that it is awaiting further clarification from Kyiv regarding the timeline for the proposed third round of talks.
Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Monday that Moscow remains open to the idea of continuing talks. “Kyiv is taking its time. We still await proposals concerning the timelines. The Russian side is willing to continue and hold a third round,” he stated.
Diplomatic Channels Remain Open
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin, who participated in previous rounds of negotiation in Istanbul, reinforced this position during an interview with the Russian daily Izvestia. “There is an understanding that direct Russian-Ukrainian negotiations will continue,” Galuzin said.
While Moscow indicates its willingness to engage in further dialogue, Ukrainian officials have maintained that the next round of discussions can only proceed after the completion of previously agreed prisoner exchanges.
Putin-Trump Call Touches On Conflict
Kremlin Aide Yuri Ushakov also revealed that Russian President Vladimir Putin recently discussed the Ukraine conflict with former US President Donald Trump in a nearly hour-long call. According to a statement from the Russian President’s office, Putin reiterated Moscow’s commitment to negotiations while asserting that Russia would pursue its strategic objectives in the region.
“Putin informed Trump about the progress made in implementing the humanitarian agreements reached during the second round of direct talks in Istanbul,” the Kremlin statement noted, adding that Moscow remains committed to eliminating what it calls the “root causes” of the ongoing confrontation.
Humanitarian Outcomes Of Istanbul Talks
The second round of Russia-Ukraine peace talks, held in Istanbul on June 2, led to tangible progress, particularly in humanitarian areas. Both sides agreed to conduct an “all for all” exchange involving prisoners of war, particularly those under 25 years old and the seriously ill, with about 1,000 individuals expected to be released on each side.
Earlier, the first round of negotiations, held on May 16, resulted in an initial 1,000-for-1,000 prisoner swap agreement and the exchange of preliminary terms for a potential ceasefire arrangement.
Outlook On The Third Round
While no fixed date has been set, expectations for the third round remain tied to the fulfillment of existing commitments. Diplomatic observers say the outcome of the prisoner exchange will likely determine whether the negotiations proceed in late July or early August.
As both Moscow and Kyiv signal conditional openness to talks, international attention remains focused on whether these preliminary steps will translate into lasting de-escalation on the ground.
–Input IANS
