Kremlin does not expect a breakthrough in Istanbul talks – Peskov
22 July 2025 15:58
Russian Presidential Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that Moscow does not expect a “miracle” or breakthrough decisions at the talks with Ukraine in Istanbul. This was reported by the Interfax propaganda agency, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports.
“There are no grounds for counting on any breakthroughs from the category of miracles, and it is hardly possible in the current situation,” he told reporters.
Peskov added that Russia intends to “secure its interests” and fulfill “the tasks set from the beginning.” At the same time, he refrained from predicting a possible peace agreement, noting that “any forecasts will be wrong now.”
What is currently known about the talks between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul:
- The third round of talks will take place on July 23, 2025 in Istanbul, the same place where meetings were held on May 16 and June 2
- The Ukrainian delegation will be headed by NSDC Secretary Rustem Umerov, along with representatives of the Intelligence Service, the Foreign Ministry, and the President’s Office
The main goal
- Agreements on the exchange of prisoners, focusing also on the return of children abducted by Russia
- Discussion of infrastructure security, humanitarian issues and implementation of agreements of previous rounds
- In the future, preparing for a high-level meeting between Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Vladimir Putin
Participants’ awareness and position
- The Kremlin does not expect a breakthrough: Peskov said that the positions of the parties remain “diametrically opposed” and described “miracles” as unlikely
- russia reaffirmed its readiness for dialogue, but noted that “a lot of diplomatic work is ahead”
- Ukraine insists on speeding up the process, especially in the humanitarian block, including Umerov at the talks
Security context
- The talks are taking place against the backdrop of intense Russian missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities, including the death of a child in Kramatorsk, shelling of Sumy, Odesa, etc.
- Despite the diplomatic format, the shelling continues, lowering expectations for quick decisions
