Ukraine confirms that Russia made unacceptable demands in Istanbul

Heorhii Tykhyi, spokesperson for Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has said that the Russian side made statements that are unacceptable to Ukraine during Friday’s talks in Istanbul.

Source: Tykhyi in a comment to journalists in Istanbul, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Tykhyi said that during the talks, the Russian delegation "voiced a number of things which we deem unacceptable". However, he declined to specify what they were.

Quote: "We have extensive experience of all kinds of negotiations with the Russians, believe me. Since 2014, there have been many rounds. So I would say the Ukrainian delegation knows how to approach anything that may be said from that side."

Details: Tykhyi also noted that the Ukrainian delegation handled the negotiations "very well" and that "our position has remained unchanged".

Background:

• Sky News reported, citing a source within Ukrainian diplomatic circles, that Russia put forward demands that are unrealistic and go far beyond what had previously been discussed. According to the source, Russia’s demands include the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from its own territory before a ceasefire can be declared.

• UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has commented on the negotiations in Istanbul, saying Russia’s position was "unacceptable".

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