Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on 22/7 that "there is no reason to expect a miraculous breakthrough. That's unlikely in the current situation. We intend to continue pursuing our interests, ensuring their protection, and completing the tasks set from the very beginning."

When asked about a potential timeframe for a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine, Peskov said he couldn't provide any information at this time.

"There's still much work to be done before we can discuss holding a high-level meeting," he said.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov in Kazan in October 2024. Photo: AFP

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov in Kazan in October 2024. Photo: AFP

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on 19/7 urged the resumption of talks with Russia. He also pressed Russia to take necessary steps toward a ceasefire, including prisoner exchanges, the repatriation of Ukrainian children, an end to attacks, and a summit "to truly ensure lasting peace."

Zelensky's statement came a day after Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan appeared to discuss resuming peace talks between Moscow and Kyiv in Istanbul.

Zelensky later announced that former Ukrainian defense minister and current Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, Rustem Umerov, would lead the Kyiv delegation in the next round of peace talks with Russia, expected on 23/7.

However, Russia hasn't confirmed the talks or announced its delegation.

The two countries held two rounds of bilateral talks in Istanbul on 16/5 and 2/6, after over three years without direct dialogue. The meetings yielded no significant progress toward a ceasefire, resulting only in agreements on prisoner exchanges and the return of soldiers' remains.

Vu Hoang (AFP, Reuters)