Russia and Ukraine to Resume Peace Talks in Istanbul

Russia and Ukraine to Resume Peace Talks in Istanbul Amidst the ongoing conflict, a glimmer of hope emerged as Russia proposed a second round of direct talks with Ukraine. The announcement, made by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, set the stage for a meeting in Istanbul on June 2nd, 2025. Lavrov stated that the Russian delegation, headed by presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, is prepared to present a detailed memorandum outlining Russia's position and proposals for resolving the conflict's root causes. He expressed gratitude to Turkey for providing a neutral venue for these crucial negotiations. However, the renewed diplomatic effort hasn't been met with universal optimism. US President Donald Trump voiced his concerns, stating, "I'm very disappointed by the ongoing military actions during this negotiation period." While critical of Russia's actions, Trump confirmed that he is not currently planning to impose new sanctions, believing that such measures could hinder the peace process. He emphasized that the coming weeks are critical in determining Russia's sincerity in pursuing peace. The upcoming talks in Istanbul represent a significant opportunity for de-escalation and a potential path toward a peaceful resolution. The international community watches with bated breath, hoping for a breakthrough that could bring an end to the protracted conflict.