Kremlin links next Russia–Ukraine talks to review of peace proposals

By Alperen Aktas

ISTANBUL (AA) - The timeline for a new round of negotiations between Russia and Ukraine will be determined after both parties review the exchanged draft memoranda on peace proposals, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Wednesday, according to state news agency TASS.

“It is obvious that some time will be needed to consider the draft memoranda that (the parties) exchanged,” Peskov told a press briefing in Moscow. “As the parties are ready, they will agree on the timing of the next round.”

His remarks came after Russian and Ukrainian delegations submitted separate proposals during the second round of direct talks held on Monday in Istanbul.

Earlier, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov said Kyiv had a week to study Moscow’s proposals, while Russian delegation head Vladimir Medinsky claimed the memorandum presented by Moscow outlined concrete steps toward a ceasefire and long-term peace.

The parties are also discussing large-scale prisoner exchanges and the return of soldiers’ remains, as agreed during talks in the Turkish metropolis.