Talks between Ukraine and russia planned in Istanbul on July 23 or 24 – media

A new round of talks between russia and Ukraine is expected in Istanbul (Turkey) this week. They will probably be held on July 23 or 24.

Independent Türkçe reported this with reference to diplomatic sources.

"According to information from diplomatic sources, this week Istanbul will host important meetings in terms of international diplomacy. In addition to talks with European countries on Iran's nuclear program, talks between Russia and Ukraine are also expected in Istanbul this week," the report said.

The likely dates of the meeting of the russian and Ukrainian delegations in Istanbul could be July 23 or 24. However, exact information about the place, time and level of the delegations has not been reported.

It is noted that the new talks may focus on such issues as humanitarian aid, prisoner exchange, infrastructure security and security measures in border areas.

"It has become known that work is underway to determine the venues for both meetings, develop security protocols and logistical preparations. It is planned that all negotiations will be held behind closed doors, and then the public will be informed through written statements," the publication claims.

As the Ukrainian News agency earlier reported, on July 18, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had a telephone conversation with russian dictator vladimir putin, in which he stressed the importance of holding a third round of negotiations with Ukraine.

On July 14, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said that russian dictator vladimir putin had never sent serious people to negotiations with Ukraine, two rounds of which were held in Istanbul, Turkey.