Ukrainian and Russian negotiators reconvened in Istanbul on Monday for high-stakes peace talks, as both sides presented competing visions for ending a conflict marked by recent escalations in military strikes. The meeting at Ciragan Palace, mediated by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, comes days after Ukraine launched long-range attacks on Russian bomber bases and Moscow responded with record drone assaults.
Roadmap for Peace or Stalemate?
Ukraine's delegation, led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, proposed a peace framework maintaining Kyiv's right to military self-defense and rejecting recognition of Russian territorial claims. A draft document obtained by Reuters outlines demands for reparations and proposes using current frontlines as negotiation baselines – a contentious point given Russia's control of 18% of Ukrainian territory.
Shadow of Siberian Strikes
The diplomatic push follows Sunday's unprecedented Ukrainian attack on Russian nuclear-capable bomber bases in Siberia, while Moscow launched 472 drones overnight – the conflict's highest single-night tally. These developments underscore the paradox of intensified warfare coinciding with renewed dialogue.
Memorandum in the Balance
Russian delegation head Vladimir Medinsky confirmed receipt of Ukraine's proposals, stating Moscow would respond Monday. The Kremlin previously demanded a draft memorandum from Kyiv before discussing ceasefires, while Ukrainian officials await Russia's counterproposal. Previous May negotiations yielded only a prisoner exchange, leaving core issues unresolved.
As global markets watch for energy and grain supply implications, analysts caution that conflicting demands over territorial sovereignty and security guarantees remain significant obstacles to any breakthrough.
