Turkey is ready to facilitate negotiations between Russia and Ukraine regardless of where they take place and does not consider the choice of venue a fundamental issue. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Sputnik Kazakhstan.
In 2025, Russia and Ukraine held three rounds of direct talks in Istanbul.
Turkey's Stance
A source in the Turkish government told RIA Novosti that the venue of negotiations is not a matter of principle.
«"For Turkey, the venue of negotiations is not a matter of principle. If the parties agree on another location, Ankara is ready to provide the necessary assistance. What matters more to us is the continuation of direct dialogue between Russia and Ukraine and the possibility of achieving concrete results," the agency source said.»
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Istanbul's Role
According to the source, Istanbul remains a convenient and well-proven platform, as Turkey has previously hosted Russian and Ukrainian delegations and has the necessary diplomatic channels.
The source emphasized that Turkey is ready to support any initiative aimed at ending hostilities and finding a political solution.
«"If the parties want the talks to take place in Istanbul, Turkey is ready to host them. If they choose another place, we are also ready to help. The main thing is not to argue over the venue, but to ensure the continuation of the negotiation process and its gradual progress toward concrete results," the source noted.»
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He also noted that Ankara maintains contacts with both Moscow and Kyiv and intends to use these channels to support diplomatic efforts.