Russia Excluded from November 19 Talks in Turkey on Ukraine

Negotiations on Ukraine scheduled for Wednesday, November 19 in Turkey will take place without the participation of the Russian side. The information was confirmed by Dmitry Peskov, the official spokesperson for the Kremlin, according to TASS.

“No, there will be no Russian representatives in Turkey tomorrow. For now these contacts are taking place without Russian involvement. We will wait for information on what exactly will be discussed in Istanbul,” the presidential press secretary said.

Kyiv Has Not Notified Moscow About Readiness to Resume Talks

Moscow has not received any communication from Kyiv indicating readiness to resume negotiations on ending the conflict. This was also stated by Dmitry Peskov, in comments regarding the upcoming visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to Turkey. The Ukrainian leader announced the trip on November 18.

According to Peskov, Zelensky’s remarks likely referred to the contacts scheduled to take place in Istanbul on November 19. He clarified that these discussions will involve Turkey and may be joined by Steve Witkoff, the Special Envoy of the U.S. President.

Kremlin Expects Clarification from Zelensky

The Kremlin spokesperson added that Kyiv’s true readiness for negotiations with Moscow can be assessed only after President Volodymyr Zelensky makes public statements following his meetings in Turkey. These remarks, Peskov said, should shed light on the ideas and proposals the Ukrainian president intends to present.