**Turkey Plays Peacemaker as Erdogan and Putin Discuss Ukraine-Russia Talks**
In a bid to revive stalled peace talks, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on July 18. The conversation centered on restarting direct negotiations between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul, Erdogan’s office announced.
According to the Turkish presidency, Erdogan emphasized the importance of launching a third round of negotiations. He also stated that Turkey is prepared to host discussions in Istanbul once both sides agree on a date. The phone call covered broader bilateral relations and regional issues, demonstrating Turkey’s continued efforts to mediate between Kyiv and Moscow.
The last direct talks between Ukraine and Russia took place in Istanbul on June 2, following a previous meeting on May 16 after more than three years without negotiations. However, the second round of talks ended without an agreement, as Ukraine proposed a 30-day ceasefire but was rejected by Russia, which instead pushed for a short-term truce to collect its dead.
**Ukraine Pushes for Direct Talks**
Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov has stated that Kyiv aims to secure a direct meeting between President Volodymyr Zelensky and Putin. While Zelensky has expressed readiness for face-to-face talks, Putin has repeatedly declined to participate in person, sending lower-level officials instead.
Turkey’s role as a peace facilitator is significant, having previously organized talks in March 2022 and maintaining open channels with both Kyiv and Moscow. Erdogan also mentioned the possibility of organizing a Zelensky-Putin meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump participating.
**Tensions Remain High**
The war between Ukraine and Russia remains ongoing, with tensions still running high. On June 26, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov said that Kyiv aims to secure a direct meeting between President Volodymyr Zelensky and Putin. While Zelensky has expressed readiness for face-to-face talks, Putin has repeatedly declined to participate in person.
The situation remains precarious, with Ukraine’s First Deputy Foreign Minister Sergiy Kyslytsya describing the Istanbul meetings as “not genuine negotiations” due to Russia’s ultimatum-style positions. This indicates that a breakthrough in peace talks is unlikely without significant concessions from both parties.
**Russia Remains Determined to Pursue War**
Citing three unnamed sources close to the Kremlin, Reuters reported on July 15 that Putin remains determined to pursue the war until the West agrees to a settlement on his terms. This suggests that Russia’s stance on Ukraine has not shifted, despite international pressure and economic sanctions.
As tensions remain high, Turkey continues to play a crucial role as a mediator between Kyiv and Moscow. The success of Erdogan’s efforts will depend on both sides’ willingness to compromise and engage in genuine negotiations.
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