Putin, Zelensky May Hold a Meeting in Istanbul — Turkish Vice President

Russian President Vladimir Putin may meet with Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky in Istanbul, which has previously hosted three rounds of direct talks between the two countries, Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz said. Speaking to Haberturk television, Yilmaz emphasized Turkey’s role as a mediator.

Yilmaz suggested that Istanbul remains a viable location for potential negotiations. “Zelensky and Putin may hold a meeting in Istanbul. Why not?” he remarked, highlighting Turkey’s readiness to advance efforts for peace in Ukraine and host possible talks between the two leaders on Turkish soil.

However, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov clarified on August 22 that no meeting between Putin and Zelensky is currently being planned. He added that Putin would be ready for such a meeting only when a clear agenda has been established.