Talks could take place, but only as a result of progress in the ongoing peace efforts between Russian and Ukrainian delegations, Dmitry Peskov has said
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukraine’s Vladimir Zelensky could hold talks if the ongoing peace efforts between Russian and Ukrainian delegations result in progress and firm agreements, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Saturday. His comments come after the first direct negotiations between Moscow and Kiev since 2022.
On Friday, Russian and Ukrainian representatives sat down for a two-hour Turkish-mediated meeting in Istanbul. The sides discussed ceasefire options, a major prisoner exchange, and a potential follow-up meeting, according to Moscow’s top negotiator, Vladimir Medinsky. He added that Russia is “satisfied” with the results of the talks and is ready to “resume contacts” with Kiev.
READ MORE: Russia’s top negotiator outlines key outcomes of Istanbul talks (FULL STATEMENT)
Speaking to reporters on Saturday, Peskov said a meeting between Putin and Zelensky “is possible but only as a result of the work of the delegations of both sides and reaching specific agreements.”
He added that a key issue for Moscow remains the question of who Ukraine would authorize to sign any potential agreements reached by the negotiators.
Peskov was referring to the fact that Zelensky’s presidential term expired last year. The Ukrainian leader refused to call a new election, citing martial law. Russia considers him “illegitimate,” insisting that legal authority in Ukraine now lies with the parliament.
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