Negotiations between the delegations of Russia and Ukraine began in Istanbul.

Negotiations between the Russian and Ukrainian delegations began at Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul on May 16.

According to media reports, before the talks, Presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, who heads the Russian delegation, held a meeting with a U.S. representative.

In addition to Medinsky, the Russian delegation included Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin, Chief of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces Igor Kostyukov and Deputy Defense Minister Alexander Fomin.

Ukraine will be represented by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, First Deputy Foreign Minister Serhiy Kyslytsa, Deputy Head of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) Alexander Poklad, First Deputy Chairman of the Foreign Intelligence Service Oleg Lugovskoy, Deputy Head of the Main Intelligence Directorate Vadim Skibitsky, as well as other representatives of the military sector.

Prior to that, negotiations between the American, Turkish and Ukrainian sides took place in Istanbul.

Territorial principles: how the dialogue between Russia and Ukraine can begin

And what is capable of disrupting the first direct negotiations in three years?

The day before, Medinsky noted that the Russian delegation in Istanbul is determined to find possible solutions and common ground on Ukraine. He believes that the group has all the necessary skills and authority to participate in the negotiations.