First round of Russia-Ukraine negotiations in Istanbul concludes: Journalist and author Okay Deprem evaluates for 12punto

Peace negotiations initiated in Istanbul's Dolmabahçe under Turkey's mediation to end the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine have concluded. The decision by the parties to conduct a prisoner exchange was considered a positive step for the talks.

While both sides left the table satisfied with the initial meetings, journalist and author Okay Deprem evaluated the process for 12punto.

First round of Russia-Ukraine negotiations in Istanbul concludes: Journalist and author Okay Deprem @OkayDeprem evaluates for 12puntohttps://t.co/tFqzpvGYRr pic.twitter.com/UtskeERcy1

— 12punto (@12puntocomtr) May 16, 2025

Here is Deprem's evaluation:

In my opinion, it can be said that the talks went positively today despite everything, because Medinsky, the head of the Russian delegation, used the phrase "the initial atmosphere is positive" in his assessment of the meeting held in Dolmabahçe, even though he did not make many statements.

First, there were issues on which the Russian delegation reached an agreement with Ukraine. As a gesture, both sides carried out a prisoner exchange of one thousand people.

Second, the Ukrainian side requested that the next meeting be held at the level of heads of state.

The parties will likely put their ideas on how to achieve peace on the table at the next meeting as soon as possible!

Medinsky said these things. The Ukrainian delegation left first, followed by the Russian delegation.

It has not been determined where the talks will continue from here; it will not be clear in a short time, and no statement was made regarding where the next meeting will be held following the Istanbul negotiations.

It could be in Istanbul again; Turkey has done its part, as the satisfaction level of both sides is high...

News Source: 12punto