Secret Talks in Istanbul: What Was Discussed?
As details emerge from the recent U.S.-Russia meeting in Istanbul, reports suggest significant diplomatic discussions took place. According to Bloomberg, Turkey is open to sending troops as part of a potential peacekeeping force in Ukraine.
The U.S. State Department confirmed that representatives from both countries met to discuss steps toward normalizing diplomatic operations. The meeting, held behind closed doors, could have lasting implications for global diplomacy.
Future Diplomatic Engagements Agreed Upon
Following the Istanbul discussions, both sides agreed to hold another meeting in the near future. The Russian delegation was led by Ambassador Alexander Darchiev, Director of the North Atlantic Department at the Russian Foreign Ministry. Meanwhile, the U.S. delegation was headed by Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Russia and Central Europe, Sonata Coulter.
A document published on the U.S. State Department’s website stated that “Deputy Assistant Secretary Coulter and Ambassador Darchiev agreed to hold a follow-up meeting soon.” The exact date and location of this upcoming meeting are yet to be announced.
Additionally, reports indicate that Russia raised the possibility of resuming direct air traffic with the United States, a move that could signify a thaw in relations.
Productive Discussions in Istanbul
Officials from both sides described the Istanbul talks as productive, emphasizing their role in improving diplomatic relations. The meeting is seen as a continuation of efforts to ease tensions between Washington and Moscow.
This meeting followed a high-level engagement between Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Riyadh on February 18. During that encounter, both nations agreed to expedite ambassadorial appointments and create a mechanism to resolve diplomatic tensions.
Turkey’s Role in a Potential Ukraine Peacekeeping Force
Meanwhile, Bloomberg News, citing anonymous sources, reported that Turkey is willing to send troops as part of a prospective peacekeeping mission in Ukraine.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan allegedly discussed this issue separately with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during meetings in Ankara earlier this month. While no official confirmation has been provided, Turkey’s potential involvement could shape the dynamics of the ongoing conflict.
As diplomatic maneuvers continue, the Istanbul meeting underscores Turkey’s strategic importance in global negotiations, while raising questions about future U.S.-Russia relations and Turkey’s potential role in Ukraine.
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