Official: Russia to push for recognition of territorial gains at Ukraine talks in Istanbul

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said that discussions at the upcoming talks in Istanbul on May 15 will focus on a lasting settlement to the conflict in Ukraine and the current situation on the ground, including territorial issues.

Speaking to reporters, Ryabkov stated that the agenda remains unchanged and reflects Moscow's long-standing positions, Caliber.Az reports per Russian media.

"The issues on the table are the same ones we've consistently raised: how to ensure a reliable and lasting resolution of the situation by addressing the root causes of the conflict," Ryabkov said.

He emphasised the importance of "denazifying the Kyiv regime" and securing international recognition of what he described as "the realities on the ground," including the incorporation of new territories into the Russian Federation.

The talks in Istanbul come amid renewed international efforts to de-escalate the war, though major diplomatic breakthroughs remain elusive.

Note that Russia and Ukraine are expected to resume high-level talks in Istanbul on 15 May, in a fresh diplomatic push mediated by Türkiye. The talks follow months of deadlock, with both sides entrenched militarily and politically. Ankara has confirmed preparations for the meeting, with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan aiming to revive Türkiye’s role as a mediator, as it did in hosting the initial 2022 talks that led to the now-defunct Black Sea grain deal.

Ukrainian officials have emphasised the talks will not include territorial concessions, reiterating their position that any peace must respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and borders. Meanwhile, Moscow has signalled openness to dialogue but insists that its "new realities" — including its annexation claims — must be acknowledged.

Western diplomats have expressed cautious optimism, with the EU and UN supporting Türkiye’s facilitation. However, analysts warn that prospects for a breakthrough remain slim unless there is a shift in battlefield dynamics or greater international pressure.

By Aghakazim Guliyev