The Russian delegation will arrive in Istanbul and be ready on the morning of June 2 to resume negotiations aimed at reaching a settlement in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov announced on Friday.

Speaking to reporters, Peskov confirmed that this marks the second round of peace talks between the two sides. “The Russian delegation of negotiators is departing for Istanbul and will be ready on Monday morning to continue the negotiations,” he said.

While expectations remain cautious, the Kremlin expressed hope that both sides’ draft memoranda will be discussed during the upcoming talks. However, Peskov stressed that the content of these documents would remain confidential. “Of course, nothing will be published. This cannot be published,” he stated, noting that Russian President Vladimir Putin had reviewed the Ukrainian draft, but declining to share any specific details.

Reporters also raised questions about potential discussions on broader European security involving other international actors. This follows comments by U.S. Special Presidential Envoy Keith Kellogg, who indicated that U.S., German, French, and British national security advisors are also expected to meet in Istanbul on Monday.

Peskov acknowledged the importance of addressing regional security issues but clarified that Russia’s agenda for June 2 is focused solely on direct bilateral negotiations with Ukraine. “The future of European security needs to be discussed with the Europeans one way or another. There is no way to avoid this. As for Monday, we are talking only about direct Russian-Ukrainian negotiations in Istanbul,” he said.

The Istanbul talks are seen as a critical opportunity to explore diplomatic solutions, though expectations remain tempered amid ongoing military operations and mutual distrust between the parties. (ILKHA)