The first direct peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine in over 3 years have been concluded after the Russians requested the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the territory of the 4 circuits (Donetsk, Lugansk, Zaporosian and Khersonian).
Since the outbreak of the war in 2022, the Russian army has not full controlled any of these circuits. Nevertheless, as a consequence of the alleged referendum of September of that year, Vladimir Putin "incorporated" them into the Russian Federation.
The Ukrainian delegation rejected this request. In response, the Russians declared that "the next time the circuits will be five".
According to the Ukrainian side, the Russians besides made a number of another “unrealistic” demands to Kiev.
According to the Russian Interfax agency, negotiations in Istanbul may be resumed. The Russian side was to ask for a break in them.
Source: Moscowtimes.ru
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