Russia willing to resume Istanbul format peace talks, diplomat says

Russia has expressed its readiness to continue peace negotiations with Ukraine under the Istanbul format, according to Rodion Miroshnik, Russia’s Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Miroshnik told Izvestiya that Russia had made its move by submitting a proposal and drafting a memorandum, reiterating that Moscow has been "prepared to proceed with talks since July," Caliber.Az reports.

He emphasised that Russia had not abandoned the Istanbul format and its position on the matter remained unchanged.

The Russian diplomat also pointed to European countries as "obstacles" to the negotiation process, claiming that Europe was stalling progress in the US-backed peace plan.

Miroshnik suggested that either the US approach would be adapted to Russia's goals, or it would be deemed unacceptable. He further accused Europe and Ukraine of undermining peace efforts, calling them the "main opponents" of a peaceful resolution.

Direct peace talks between Russia and Ukraine were first hosted by Türkiye in May 2025, marking the first such negotiations since the war began. Subsequent meetings took place in June and July of the year, during which both sides agreed on the exchange of prisoners of war and the return of fallen soldiers’ bodies.

In November 2025, the United States presented a new peace plan, initially consisting of 28 points, which was seen as more favorable to Russia. However, following consultations between Ukrainian and US delegations, the document was revised to better align with Ukraine’s interests. By December 8, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that the peace plan had been condensed from 28 to 20 points, aiming to simplify the negotiation process and make it more feasible for both sides.

By Sabina Mammadli