President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on 21/7 that he discussed preparations for the upcoming talks with Russia in Turkey with Rustem Umerov, Chairman of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine. "Mr. Umerov reported that the meeting is scheduled for 23/7," Zelensky said.

A Turkish government spokesperson confirmed on the same day that the Russia-Ukraine talks would take place in Istanbul, the same location as the two previous rounds of negotiations in May and June.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Rome on 10/7. Photo: AP

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Rome on 10/7. Photo: AP

Russia has not yet confirmed this information. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov commented on 21/7 about the prospects of a breakthrough in the ceasefire, stating that the draft proposals from Russia and Ukraine are "completely opposite" and "there is still a lot of diplomatic work ahead."

A high-ranking Ukrainian official revealed that this round of talks might focus on prisoner exchanges with Russia and the possibility of a meeting between Zelensky and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin.

Former US President Donald Trump issued a 50-day ultimatum to Russia on 14/7 to accept an agreement to end the conflict with Ukraine, or face significant tariffs and sanctions. Russia maintains that it remains open to dialogue.

However, Ukraine believes Russia is merely stalling for time without any real intention of a ceasefire, criticizing Moscow for making "unacceptable" demands during the previous two rounds of talks in Turkey.

Ngoc Anh (According to AFP)