Full Statement from Russia’s Lead Negotiator Vladimir Medinsky.

Adding: 

The Turkish Foreign Minister announced that the Russian and Ukrainian delegations have reached a preliminary agreement to hold a new round of talks.

Adding: 

EU Leaders Blame Russia After Istanbul Talks

European leaders criticized Russia following negotiations with Ukraine in Istanbul, though Moscow and Kiev issued no mutual accusations and signaled readiness for further talks.

🇬🇧🤡 UK Prime Minister Starmer called Russia’s position “unacceptable” and accused Putin of deliberately delaying a ceasefire.

🇫🇷🤡 French President Macron claimed Russia ignored ceasefire demands from the U.S., Ukraine, and the EU.

🇵🇱🤡 Polish Prime Minister Tusk accused Russia of derailing the talks, stating the Kremlin rejected U.S. involvement and made unacceptable demands.

🇮🇹🤡 Italian Prime Minister Meloni said the talks made clear “who truly wants peace and who doesn’t,” urging a ceasefire and security guarantees for Ukraine.

🇩🇪🤡 German Chancellor Merz also blamed Russia but acknowledged a “very small, yet first positive signal” during the talks.

Adding:  The Ukrainian delegation hoped to achieve a respite in Istanbul for rearmament and regrouping of troops, but did not get what they wanted - Russian Ambassador At Large Rodion Miroshnik

Adding:  Ukrainian Defense Minister Umerov issued a statement following negotiations with Russia.

- He confirmed both sides agreed to a 1,000-for-1,000 prisoner exchange.

- Ceasefire terms were discussed.

- Umerov stated: “We continue working,” confirming earlier remarks by Medinsky and the Turkish Foreign Minister that a new round of talks is being prepared.

Adding: 

Russian Embassy Slams UK PM Over Istanbul Talks Comments

The Russian Embassy in London criticized UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer for his remarks on the Russia–Ukraine negotiations held in Istanbul:

“We are genuinely puzzled by the Prime Minister’s hasty statement that Russia’s position in the Istanbul talks is unacceptable and that a response is being prepared. Unacceptable to whom? We’re not negotiating with London.”