Medinsky, who is leading the Russian delegation, confirmed that Moscow sees these talks as a continuation of the peace process that collapsed in 2022. “We maintain a working attitude and are ready for compromises with Ukraine,” Medinsky said during a media briefing in Istanbul. He emphasized Russia’s willingness to engage constructively, underscoring Turkey’s key role in mediating the renewed discussions.

Turkish diplomatic sources also confirmed the meeting, noting that both Russian and Ukrainian teams are expected to arrive in Istanbul today. While specific details of the agenda have not been disclosed, analysts say the discussions could focus on territorial security, humanitarian corridors, and grain export agreements, issues that have remained flashpoints throughout the war.

This marks the first direct diplomatic contact between Russia and Ukraine since the collapse of earlier negotiations in mid-2022. Since then, backchannel efforts have failed to produce tangible outcomes, making Turkey’s facilitation of this meeting a potentially significant breakthrough.

The Ukrainian delegation has not yet released a formal statement ahead of the meeting, though sources close to Kyiv indicate cautious optimism.

As the war in Ukraine enters its third year, with casualties mounting and economic consequences deepening globally, the international community will be watching this round of negotiations closely for signs of de-escalation and the potential for long-term peace-building.

The challenge comes amid a flurry of diplomatic activity over the weekend, with both Ukrainian and Russian officials engaging in U.S.-led peace efforts alongside European mediators. Zelenskyy’s statement was made during a televised address, where he emphasized his commitment to “face-to-face diplomacy” in the hopes of reaching a meaningful agreement.

“I am ready to meet Putin in person, in Turkey, to discuss how we bring this senseless war to an end,” said Zelenskyy. “The world demands peace, and we owe it to our people to try every possible channel.”

The proposed summit in Ankara would be hosted by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who has positioned Turkey as a neutral mediator throughout the conflict.

Kremlin officials have yet to formally respond to the invitation, but sources close to Moscow suggest the Russian side is weighing its options amid mounting international pressure to de-escalate hostilities.

This diplomatic overture follows Ukraine’s formal request for a 30-day ceasefire, supported by key Western allies including the United States, France, and Germany. U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly monitoring the situation closely and has encouraged both sides to pursue peaceful resolution.

If accepted, the Zelenskyy-Putin meeting would mark the first direct encounter between the two leaders since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began in 2022.