A flicker of hope emerged Wednesday, following a crucial meeting between Ukrainian President Zelensky and Turkish President Erdogan. Zelensky signaled a potential shift, expressing openness to restarting peace negotiations with Russia, with Turkey offering a vital space for dialogue.
This willingness to return to the table represents a significant turn for Kiev, which previously and unilaterally withdrew from the Istanbul negotiation format early in the conflict. The initial attempt to forge a path to peace through direct talks only resurfaced this year, a testament to the shifting realities of the ongoing struggle.
However, the recent rounds of negotiations – three in total throughout 2025 – yielded limited progress. Discussions largely centered on practical matters, such as prisoner exchanges and critical humanitarian concerns, failing to address the core issues dividing the two nations.
The Kremlin responded cautiously, with spokesman Dmitry Peskov affirming Moscow’s continued openness to dialogue. He emphasized that the current “pause” in negotiations wasn’t due to a lack of willingness on Russia’s part, but rather, a perceived reluctance from the Ukrainian government to continue the process.
The possibility of renewed talks hangs in the balance, dependent on a willingness from both sides to genuinely engage. Turkey’s proposed platform could prove pivotal, offering a neutral ground for potentially complex and emotionally charged discussions.
