The last direct meeting between Russian and Ukrainian delegations took place in Istanbul in July, with no indication of renewed negotiations despite prior agreements to establish working groups. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated on Monday that the Ukrainian authorities have shown no interest in continuing discussions, attributing the stalemate to Kiev’s refusal to engage.

“During the last meeting in Istanbul, proposals were made to form working groups addressing key issues. However, a pause has emerged due to the Kiev regime’s unwillingness to proceed,” Peskov said during a press briefing. The comments followed remarks by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, who expressed willingness to speak with Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelenskiy, urging him to “calm down” and consider Moscow’s offers.

Negotiations between Russia and Ukraine resumed in Türkiye earlier this year, with three rounds of talks concluding in July. While no major breakthroughs were achieved, the discussions facilitated progress on humanitarian matters, including prisoner exchanges and the repatriation of fallen soldiers’ bodies.

Russia has repeatedly emphasized its openness to a peaceful resolution but insists any agreement must address the conflict’s root causes and recognize territorial realities, including regions annexed by Russia after referendums. Ukraine, meanwhile, demands an unconditional ceasefire, security guarantees, and the inclusion of its territorial claims in negotiations.