Ukraine has demanded an official response from Russia to a document outlining its vision for ending the war, which Kyiv presented to Moscow ahead of the latest round of peace talks held in Istanbul, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said late Tuesday.
The talks, hosted in Istanbul on Monday, marked the second round of direct negotiations between Russian and Ukrainian delegations, following the first round on May 16. While both sides agreed to further prisoner exchanges—focusing on the youngest and most seriously wounded—and to return the bodies of 6,000 fallen soldiers from each side, broader progress remained elusive. Ukraine had already submitted its draft peace proposal before the talks, while Russia insisted on presenting its version during the session itself.
In a statement on X, Sybiha criticized Moscow’s silence on Ukraine’s document, stating that the Russian side failed to provide feedback either during or after the meeting. “We demand Russia’s reply. Each day of silence from them proves their wish to continue the war,” he said, accusing Moscow of clinging to “old ultimatums” that do not contribute to genuine peace.
Sybiha acknowledged progress on humanitarian fronts like prisoner exchanges but insisted that greater results are possible if Russia shows equal commitment. He also called for new sanctions on Russia, citing its refusal to consider any ceasefire formats as further justification. “If current meetings fail to deliver peace, it becomes increasingly clear that a meeting of leaders is required,” he concluded.
Russian officials have not issued an immediate response to Sybiha’s remarks.
