Negotiations between Russia and Ukraine have begun in Istanbul.

Negotiations between representatives of Russia and Ukraine began in Istanbul. The delegations met at Dolmabahce Palace on May 16.

The Russian delegation is headed by Presidential Aide Vladimir Medinsky. It also includes 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.

Kiev is represented by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, First Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei 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.

As reported by "Gazeta.Ru", before the start of the negotiations, the Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan greeted the delegation. It is specified that the meeting is taking place in a closed mode from the press.

According to media reports, before the start of the negotiations, Medinsky held a meeting with a US representative.

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

Earlier in the day, Fidan said that Ankara welcomes the start of the first talks in three years between the delegations of Russia and Ukraine, taking place in Istanbul. The Minister noted that the parties should take advantage of the opportunity to negotiate and move towards a peaceful settlement.

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.