Atmosphere Shifts at Ukraine-Russia Talks in Istanbul — MFA Spokesperson

The tone of the latest round of Ukraine-Russia negotiations in Istanbul was notably different from previous meetings, with more focus and less emotion, according to Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi, The Gaze reports, citing Ukrinform.

“This third round of talks felt more grounded. There was less emotion and lyricism — the conversation was calm and constructive. While both sides reiterated their positions, the overall atmosphere was more down-to-earth,” Tykhyi told reporters on Tuesday.

He emphasized Turkey’s critical role in facilitating the dialogue, praising President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s efforts.

“President Erdoğan is a leader making real efforts toward peace. We appreciate his strength, leadership, and consistent support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity. We’re also grateful to Turkey for providing this platform for talks,” Tykhyi said.

He also recalled Erdoğan’s role in the Black Sea Grain Initiative and noted that the recent meeting between the Ukrainian delegation and the Turkish president in Ankara was “friendly and constructive,” with discussions on potential peace pathways.

The July 23 negotiations followed a meeting between the Ukrainian delegation and Erdoğan in Ankara. After the talks, Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov, who heads the delegation, stated that Ukraine is ready to implement a ceasefire immediately.

As The Gaze previously reported, during peace talks in Istanbul, the Ukrainian delegation proposed to Russia that a meeting of the leaders of the two countries be held by the end of August, with the participation of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and US President Donald Trump.