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Ukraine FM: Istanbul Meeting Cannot Serve as Excuse Not to Increase Pressure on Russia
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![Ivan_khomenko]( "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
-21d0b63c17f6020e4df75f6c6f9a2f4f.jpg "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stated that Russia’s effort to present the May 16 negotiations in Istanbul as a continuation of the 2022 peace talks has failed, emphasizing that current conditions are significantly different and shaped by new geopolitical dynamics, particularly the involvement of the United States.
In a social media post summarizing the meeting between Ukrainian and Russian delegations in Türkiye, Sybiha noted that despite Russian rhetoric and provocations, a concrete result was achieved — an agreement to return 1,000 Ukrainian citizens through a prisoner exchange. “This alone gave meaning to the talks,” he said.
According to Sybiha, Russia sent representatives without sufficient authority to discuss a full ceasefire. He stressed that President Vladimir Putin continues to make all key decisions in Russia, and therefore, direct dialogue with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is necessary.
“The Russian delegation lacked a mandate to commit to a ceasefire. That’s a problem. But Ukraine will continue insisting on an unconditional and lasting cessation of hostilities,” Sybiha stated.
He further said Ukraine proved during the Istanbul meeting that it remains committed to peace efforts and continues working to restore security and stability. However, the outcome of the talks also demonstrated that further pressure on Russia remains essential.
“The Istanbul meeting cannot and will not serve as a justification for easing pressure on Russia. On the contrary, it highlights why increased pressure is needed,” Sybiha wrote.
He also underlined that attempts by Moscow to revive the 2022 negotiation narrative have failed. “This is a different phase of the war, shaped by a new dynamic and new realities,” he said, pointing to the role of US diplomacy and the peace efforts led by President Donald Trump.
Sybiha concluded that Ukraine will remain consistent in its approach — securing the return of its people, working toward ceasefire and peace, and strengthening its national defense.
“Our priority remains unchanged: silence, safety, and peace. And Ukraine’s defense capability will continue to grow,” he said.
Earlier on May 16, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov stated that President Zelenskyy had anticipated high-level talks in Istanbul, adding that the next step should be preparing for a summit between national leaders.
