Istanbul talks: Russia sets terms, faces EU/US pushback
According to the BBC, citing Bloomberg sources, the Russian delegation put forward several conditions for a ceasefire during negotiations in Istanbul on May 16.
According to Bloomberg, Moscow reportedly demanded the following from Kyiv:
- Neutral status for Ukraine, prohibiting foreign troops or weapons of mass destruction on its territory;
- Renunciation of demands for war reparations from Russia;
- Annexed Crimea and the regions partially occupied by Moscow should be internationally recognized as Russian;
- Ukraine should withdraw its troops from these territories.
Bloomberg emphasizes that these demands run counter to US conditions. In addition, several European officials who spoke to the publication anonymously said they were "disappointed and puzzled" by Donald Trump's consistent avoidance regarding Russia.
According to the BBC, they expect decisive measures from the US president and hope that this week's events will demonstrate to Trump that Moscow is not taking the negotiations seriously.
On the X platform, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed disappointment that Russia missed the opportunity to start ceasefire discussions at the Istanbul negotiations. According to Friedrich Merz, Germany will continue to help Ukraine defend itself against the war started by Russia:
Together with Zelenskyy, we agree that Russia had a good opportunity this week to initiate the first discussions about a peace agreement, preceded by a ceasefire agreement. We are very disappointed that this did not happen.
On Friday, May 16, negotiations between Ukraine and Russia took place in Istanbul, lasting about two hours.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
