Official: Ukraine rejects unacceptable Russia’s proposals in Istanbul peace talks

Spokesman for Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry Heorhii Tykhyi has said that Ukraine firmly rejected a series of proposals presented by the Russian delegation during the recent round of peace negotiations in Istanbul, Türkiye labelling them as "unacceptable".  

He noted that the Ukrainian delegation, however, remained composed and unwavering in its stance, Caliber.Az reports via Ukrainian media.

Tykhyi addressed the media in Istanbul following the talks, noting Kyiv’s extensive experience in handling such negotiations with Moscow.

“The Russian delegation voiced a number of things we consider unacceptable. We have a great deal of experience negotiating with the Russians—believe me, since 2014 there have been many rounds of talks. I’d say the Ukrainian delegation knows very well how to respond to anything that might come from their side,” he said. 

Tykhyi stressed that the Ukrainian team responded with composure and reiterated its unwavering commitment to its principles.

“The delegation responded calmly, defined our principled position, and held our line,” he added.

The Istanbul meeting marked the first face-to-face discussions between Russian and Ukrainian representatives since 2022. Russian presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, who led the Russian delegation, expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the talks.

By Naila Huseynova