The next round of Ukraine-Russia talks will be taking place in Istanbul, Turkiye on March 28-30.
After talks between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Russian President Vladimir Putin in previous day, it was decided to hold the meeting in Istanbul. It should be noted that in the early days of the Russia-Ukraine war, many experts predicted that the talks would be resolved by Turkish leader Erdogan. Because the reason for Erdogan's successful mediation in the talks was that he had extensive trade relations with Russia while he is very friendly with Ukraine. So, Erdogan has warm relations with both Zelenskyy and Putin.
Noting that this initiative is the second diplomatic step to achieve a ceasefire between the parties after the meeting of Foreign Ministers in Antalya on March 10. Although the date of the meeting is not yet clear, the results to be achieved are more important.
According to Ukrainian lawyer and political expert Alexander Merezhko, one of the highlights of the meeting was the personal participation of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
"Personally, I do not expect much from this meeting, except for Putin's participation in the talks. Russia must prove that it is negotiating seriously and honestly. This is not the case yet. First, we need to start with a ceasefire. Secondly, Putin must personally participate in the talks, because he is the one who makes the decisions. "
He also spoke about the results of the meeting, as well as the role of President Erdogan in the talks.
"As I said, I do not see any prospects for reaching an agreement, because Putin still keeps uttering ultimatums and absurd demands.
As for the mediation of President Erdogan, we welcome it as the people of Ukraine. He truly wants peace and a just settlement. However, this depends on neither Erdogan nor Ukraine. It depends on Putin, who is in a panic and does not show the will to negotiate honestly. "
Alexander Merezhko also commented on recent media reports that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had been criticizing the West for its weak stance on the processes.
"Zelenskyy did not criticize the West. Yes, we would like to hope for the great support of the West, Turkiye and Azerbaijan. Especially in terms of receiving military assistance. This is very good. At the same time, we are very grateful for the help we have received from the allies so far. "
The political expert also shared his views on the steps to be taken by Ukraine to restore the economic damage caused by the post-war period and the processes to be carried out. He also spoke about the "Marshall Plan", which can now ensure the financially revival of Ukraine.
"I would like to note that a large number of such aid funds are needed to rebuild the Ukrainian economy, which has suffered as a result of Russian aggression. Such a fund can be replenished with donations from other sources, as well as Russian property abroad and funds confiscated from Russian oligarchs."
By Elnur Enveroglu
