Russia-Ukraine: New Peace Talks in Istanbul After Kyiv’s Unprecedented Strike

International attention is focused today, Monday (02.06.25), on Istanbul, where the second round of peace talks between Russia and Ukraine is taking place. With Ukraine celebrating its significant drone strike success and Russia labeling it a terrorist act, both sides are back at the negotiating table in Istanbul. The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that negotiations will begin at 11 a.m. BST (13:00 Athens time) at the Ciragan Palace, with hopes they won’t be fruitless this time. Military tensions remain high, influencing the atmosphere of the discussions as neither side wishes to appear weak. Developments in Istanbul are awaited with interest, potentially determining the next steps towards peace or further escalation. Key demands include a ceasefire and sovereignty guarantees. The Ukrainian delegation insists on an unconditional and complete ceasefire before substantive peace talks can commence. Territorial changes since 2014 aren’t recognized internationally, but Ukraine shows willingness to negotiate based on current military lines if there’s a reliable truce and international guarantees. Maintaining full sovereignty and the right to choose alliances, particularly with NATO and the EU, is also crucial for Kyiv. President Zelenskyy confirmed Ukraine’s participation, highlighting Defense Minister Rustem Umerov as the lead negotiator. Priorities include securing a comprehensive ceasefire, repatriation of prisoners, and children allegedly abducted by Moscow. Additionally, Ukraine’s ‘Spiderweb’ operation reportedly damaged Russian aircraft worth $7 billion, impacting strategic bombers. The U.S., through former President Trump’s appeals, has urged both nations toward peace, though no breakthrough has been achieved. Previously, the first round led only to a major prisoner exchange without any signs of peace or ceasefire.