Russia issues huge warning as new Ukraine peace talks begin

As peace talks between Ukraine and Russia resume in Istanbul, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expressing hope that the discussions might lead to a direct meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This latest round marks a renewed attempt to broker a ceasefire and address humanitarian concerns, including prisoner exchanges and the return of children taken during the conflict.

Leading the Ukrainian delegation is Rustem Umerov, currently the head of Ukraine’s National Security and Defence Council. On the Russian side, former culture minister Vladimir Medinsky returns as chief negotiator—a figure Ukrainian officials have often dismissed as having little real authority.

In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), President Zelensky emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to peace:

“Ukraine is ready to work as productively as possible to secure the release of our people from captivity and return of abducted children, to stop the killings, and to prepare a leaders' meeting aimed at truly bringing this war to an end. Our position is fully transparent. Ukraine never wanted this war, and it is Russia that must end the war that it started.”

Despite these intentions, the Kremlin appears to be managing expectations. Presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that while negotiations are ongoing, there is little reason to anticipate a major breakthrough. “No one expects an easy road,” he stated, adding that hopes for “miraculous breakthroughs” are “hardly possible.”

Meanwhile, back in Ukraine, President Zelensky is facing pressure at home over a controversial new law that critics argue could undermine the country’s anti-corruption efforts. Thousands of demonstrators gathered outside the presidential offices in Kyiv, chanting slogans like “Shame” and demanding a veto. Similar protests were reported in other cities including Dnipro, Lviv, and Odesa.

The bill has raised alarms among European Union officials, who see strong anti-corruption measures as essential to Ukraine’s bid for EU membership. A spokesperson for European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen confirmed that Brussels is seeking clarification from the Ukrainian government about the proposed legislation.

As peace talks continue and domestic unrest grows, Ukraine’s leadership is navigating a complex landscape—balancing diplomacy with Russia while trying to meet democratic standards that bring the country closer to Europe.