Russian press secretary Dmitry Peskov, commenting on the recent negotiations held in Istanbul, stated that a meeting between the leaders of the two countries could only be considered after substantive discussions. The Kremlin expressed cautious skepticism regarding Kyiv's proposal to hold a meeting by the end of August.
A high-level meeting between the presidents of Russia and Ukraine can only take place after meaningful and thoroughly prepared negotiations. This was stated by Russian President's press secretary Dmitry Peskov on July 24.
While explaining the third round of talks held in Istanbul last night, he emphasized that Russia did not expect major results from this meeting but positively assessed the discussion of humanitarian issues and the initiative to create working groups.
According to Peskov, the Kremlin is pushing for a constructive and substantive agenda, but organizing a meeting between Putin and Zelensky by the end of August may be difficult—this process requires serious preparation.
Peskov also noted that Russian forces are taking necessary measures to ensure security along the border with Ukraine and expressed concern about the fate of civilians remaining in Ukrainian territory.
Regarding relations with the U.S., he said that contacts with Washington could be quickly restored if necessary. However, he clarified that there is no concrete plan yet for a Putin-Trump meeting.
Earlier, the head of the Ukrainian delegation, Rustam Umarov, stated that Kyiv had proposed a meeting with Putin by the end of August following the negotiations in Istanbul. Meanwhile, The Times reported that Donald Trump could meet with Putin in China in September.
