Talks in Istanbul: Sybiha makes statement regarding memorandum from Russia

Ukraine is interested in continuing peace negotiations in Istanbul, but for them to be effective, the Russian side must submit its ceasefire memorandum in advance, as previously agreed.

This statement was made by Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha during a joint press conference in Kyiv with his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan.

Sybiha emphasized that Ukraine is open to direct negotiations with Russia to establish a truce.

«We are interested in continuing these meetings (with Russian representatives in Istanbul — ed.) because we want to end the war this year, and we are interested in establishing a truce — whether for 30, 50, or 100 days. Ukraine is open to discussing this directly with Russia — we confirmed this during the ceasefire, ” the minister stated.

He noted that Ukraine expects Russia to submit the memorandum before the upcoming meeting in Istanbul.

«We are also waiting for the memorandum from the Russian side, as it was announced. We expect it in advance. This was also promised to the American side, ” Sybiha said.

According to him, in order for the next meeting in Istanbul to be substantial and focused, it is important to receive the document beforehand. This way, the Ukrainian delegation will have the mandate to discuss the relevant positions during the negotiations.

The head of Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry reminded that Kyiv accepted Washington’s proposal for a ceasefire, and now Russia must accept an unconditional truce. Sybiha said this would «open the door for broader subsequent negotiations regarding our peace efforts toward achieving a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace for Ukraine.» The minister emphasized that pressure must be put on Moscow to elicit a clear «yes» to the truce.