Round Two of Russia-Ukraine Negotiations in Istanbul
A Closer Look at the Discussions
Negotiations between Russia and Ukraine took place in Istanbul, facilitated by the Russian language.
The second round of diplomatic conversations between Russian and Ukrainian delegations took place on June 2, 2025, within the framework of the U.S.-mediated peace talks aimed at putting an end to the persisting conflict between the two nations [1][2].
A noteworthy development in this round of discussions was the possibility of a fresh prisoner exchange. The earlier meeting on May 16 had resulted in an agreement for a "1000 for 1000" swap of captive militaries and civilians [3].
Highlights of the Meetings
The discussions at the Çırağan Palace lasted approximately an hour, a considerable reduction compared to the initial round's duration [3]. Following the meeting, there were predictions of a statement from the Russian delegation. Journalists were eagerly awaiting a press conference from the Russian delegates.
Composed of influential figures such as presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin, Chief of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the General Staff Igor Kostyukov, and Deputy Defense Minister Alexander Fomin, the Russian delegation was headlined by Medinsky [3].
On the Ukrainian side, the delegation was led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov [4]. Prior to the talks, both delegations held separate meetings. The Ukrainian team met with representatives from Italy, Britain, and France. The Russian delegation, headed by Medinsky, was slated to have "certain contacts"; however, the details of these meetings remained undisclosed. According to Turkish officials, these contacts were not with Turkish Foreign Ministry representatives [4].
In his opening address, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized the theme of the second round - the prospect of a new prisoner exchange. RBC live-streamed the beginning of the talks at the Çırağan Palace [3].
Insights from the Enrichment Data
- Productivity of the Talks: Despite reaching an agreement for a fresh prisoner exchange, the discussions were limited in their output due to Russia's refusal to provide Ukraine with a memorandum detailing terms for a peace settlement [1].
- Russia's Demands: The memorandum proposed by Russia demanded substantial territorial and political concessions from Ukraine, including the annexation of four Ukrainian regions, while offering no concessions [1][2].
Aftermath and Future Expectations
The lack of a sustainable peace deal and a ceasefire were the main pitfalls of the June 2 talks. Both parties remain willing to carry on military operations. Ukraine has indicated it will proceed with attacks unless Russia ceases its offensive, while Russia has upheld its ambitious war objectives [2].
Ukraine has expressed a desire for increased pressure on Russia, including sanctions and military pressure, to push Russia toward a reasonable settlement [2]. The U.S. remains optimistic about continued dialogues as a means to reach a lasting peace [2].
Politics and general news reports suggest that despite the second round of Russia-Ukraine negotiations in Istanbul, a sustainable peace deal and ceasefire remain elusive. The talks on June 2, 2025, while resulting in a possible fresh prisoner exchange, were marred by Russia's refusal to provide Ukraine with a memorandum detailing terms for a peace settlement, which included substantial territorial and political concessions from Ukraine, leading to continued military operations on both sides.
