Direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine are anticipated to occur on Frida

Direct talks between Russia and Ukraine are set to take place in Istanbul, Turkey, on Friday — the first time the two countries have held such talks in three years. This comes amid ongoing conflict following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The talks are expected to focus on a range of issues, including the status of the annexed Crimean Peninsula and the eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, which are controlled by Russian-backed separatists.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are not expected to attend the talks in person, with mid-level delegations from both sides set to participate instead. This reflects the significant challenges that remain in negotiating an end to the conflict, which has claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions.

The talks come as NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that all pressure is on Putin to seek peace, following his decision to send a "low-level" delegation to the talks. Rutte added that Putin must recognize that he cannot achieve his goals through military means.

Meanwhile, the Ukrainian air force reported the loss of a fourth F-16 fighter jet, with the pilot ejecting safely. The incident marks the latest in a series of aircraft losses for Ukraine, which has been receiving military aid from NATO members, including the United States, since the start of the conflict.

The talks in Istanbul will be closely watched by international leaders and observers, as they are seen as a potential step toward resolving the war that has had far-reaching consequences for global security and the economy. However, past ceasefire agreements and diplomatic efforts have largely failed to hold, with both sides continuing to engage in military operations. Reporting by
Dmytro Hubenko