Yeliz Akmaca 
Russia announced it is ready to restart peace talks with Ukraine in Istanbul. The statement could break the four-month silence between the parties. This development signals a critical phase for regional security and international diplomacy.
Background of the Talks and Previous Obstacles
On July 23, 2025, a face-to-face meeting in Istanbul lasted only 40 minutes. Ukraine proposed a new meeting between President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin in August.
However, the Kremlin insisted the meeting take place in Moscow, which Kiev rejected. This disagreement highlighted the lack of trust and the fragile nature of peace negotiations.
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Meeting duration: 40 minutes
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Proposed August meeting: rejected
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Location dispute: Moscow vs Istanbul
Current Positions of Both Sides
On November 12, 2025, TASS reported that Russia is ready to restart talks in Istanbul. Official Aleksey Polishchuk said Turkish authorities repeatedly called for renewed negotiations, and the Russian team is ready to engage.
Ukraine, on the other hand, rejects Moscow’s claims that it is responsible for the stalled talks. Meanwhile, Kiev demands security guarantees, a military ceasefire, and unconditional negotiations. Additionally, Moscow continues to propose diplomatic initiatives such as three online working groups.
Success Potential and Obstacles
Several critical obstacles could affect the outcome of the peace talks:
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Lack of trust between parties
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Ongoing conflict on the ground
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International arms and support dynamics
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Unresolved preconditions and location disagreements
Thus, progress depends not only on Russia’s preparations but also on Ukraine’s concrete political will. Moreover, Istanbul’s neutral mediation role could accelerate the negotiation process.
Behavioral and Regional Impact Analysis
This development immediately affected markets and diplomatic behavior. Energy and agricultural sectors are adjusting trade and pricing based on potential peace scenarios. Additionally, Turkey’s mediation role, along with the observation of the EU and the US, directly influences the pace and reliability of the talks.
Furthermore, social media and public opinion data amplify the news and shape perceptions of the peace process. This, in turn, affects short-term commercial and investment strategies.
Conclusion
As of November 12, 2025, Moscow announced it is ready to restart peace talks, but the progress depends on Ukraine’s political will. This development marks a critical phase for regional security, economic balance, and international diplomacy.
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