Istanbul: The second round of direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine commenced this afternoon in Istanbul, featuring participation from Turkish officials.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced at the start of the meeting that discussions will focus on establishing terms for a ceasefire and the exchange of prisoners and civilians. The negotiations are also set to explore preparations for a potential summit between the leaders of Russia and Ukraine, aimed at achieving long-term peace.

Fidan highlighted the efforts made by Turkey, and particularly by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in facilitating dialogue between the two nations. Erdogan is expected to engage directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to support the settlement process.

The Turkish Foreign Minister reiterated Turkey’s commitment to aiding peace efforts, noting that both Russia and Ukraine express trust in Turkey’s mediation role. Fidan expressed optimism that today’s meeting would yield productive and tangible outcomes.

During this session, the negotiating parties are anticipated to exchange documents outlining their respective visions for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict. The Ukrainian delegation is led by Defense Minister Rustam Umarov, while the Russian delegation is headed by Vladimir Medinsky, advisor to President Putin.

Reports from Turkish media indicated that the negotiations in Istanbul include 12 members from the Russian side and 14 from the Ukrainian side, with the discussions taking place behind closed doors immediately following the opening. Notably, Turkish intelligence head Ibrahim Kalin and Chief of the Turkish General Staff, General Metin Gurak, joined the Turkish delegation led by Foreign Minister Fidan.