Russia Plans Russia-Ukraine Talks in Turkey as Peace Proposal Awaits US Review

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reiterated Russia's key demand for Ukraine to adopt a neutral and non-nuclear status as part of any conflict settlement, emphasizing this position ahead of upcoming peace negotiations. Lavrov also indicated plans to hold a new round of direct talks with Ukraine soon, with Turkey, specifically Istanbul, proposed as a potential venue supported by both Russian and Turkish officials. Meanwhile, the United States has received a peace proposal from Ukraine and is awaiting a corresponding document from Russia, which is expected to outline conditions for ending the conflict; a follow-up meeting is anticipated once both documents are compared. Lavrov criticized European leaders, accusing them of sabotaging peace efforts and undermining former U.S. President Donald Trump's mediation attempts by encouraging Ukraine towards military escalation. Discussions on where to hold negotiations have excluded the Vatican due to Russian opposition, with Turkey emerging as the preferred host for continuing dialogue. These developments reflect ongoing diplomatic efforts and complex geopolitical dynamics surrounding the Russia-Ukraine conflict.