Russia plans to skip ceasefire talks in Istanbul, Ukrainian source says

A Ukrainian diplomatic source has cast doubt on Russia’s commitment to peace negotiations, claiming that the Russian delegation may leave Istanbul immediately after the talks currently being held in the city, instead of staying to negotiate a ceasefire.

Speaking to Axios correspondent Barak Ravid, the source revealed that Ukrainian officials had received intelligence indicating the Russian team was planning to head straight to the airport following the meeting.

❗️ Allegedly, the Russian delegation will not stay in Istanbul for ceasefire talks and will head straight to the airport after the meeting, according to a source speaking to Axios. pic.twitter.com/kKziXHbb6g

— NOELREPORTS 🇪🇺 🇺🇦 (@NOELreports) May 16, 2025

“Everyone needs to watch closely Russian actions — they will show whether this is all a spectacle or a genuine wish to achieve peace,” the Ukrainian source said.

Ukraine aims to secure an “unconditional ceasefire,” at talks with Russian officials in Türkiye, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s top aide said.

“The Ukrainian delegation is in Istanbul today to achieve an unconditional ceasefire - this is our priority,” he wrote on Telegram.

By Sabina Mammadli