Russia is ready for the “serious” talks with Ukraine in Istanbul, declared the deputy chief of Russian diplomacy Sergei Riabkow. They are to take place on 15 May.
This date was proposed by Russian president Vladimir Putin thus responding to the ultimatum of Western countries concerning the suspension of fire until 12 May this year. Moscow ignored this request.
Riabkov stated that Russia is ready to discuss the first causes of the conflict and will request designation of joiningfour Ukrainian (Donetsk, Lugansk, Zaporosk and Khersonsk) circuits. After nearly 3.5 years of war, the Russians did not occupy any of them entirely.
At the same time, the diplomat questioned the readiness of Ukraine and its allies to enter into a conflict settlement agreement.
Ukrainian president Volodymir Zelenski confirmed that he would be present on 15 May in Istanbul. He besides demanded that Russia be represented by Putin. For now, the Kremlin is delaying its delegation's composition for the first direct negotiations of Russia and Ukraine in more than 3 years.
Source: rbc.ru
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