Türkiye's Leading Lawmaker Alleges 'Some Countries' Hindered Russia-Ukraine Peace Efforts
Ankara claims that Russia and Ukraine were on the verge of reaching a peace agreement during the Istanbul talks, but ‘some countries’ opposed the resolution of the conflict. Read Full Article at RT.com.
TroibNews 
During the Istanbul negotiations in spring 2022, Russia and Ukraine nearly reached a peace agreement, but external interference prevented its success, Turkish Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmus stated in a conversation with Haberturk broadcaster. Both nations have expressed appreciation for Turkey's role as a mediator in the conflict, a role that Kurtulmus affirmed is unique to his country.
Kurtulmus corroborated assertions from numerous media sources and senior Russian officials that an agreement was nearly finalized. "We have almost reached the final point to ensure a just and reasonable peace that both sides can accept... the matter had almost reached the point of a signature," he remarked.
However, Kurtulmus expressed disappointment that certain countries, particularly the US, opposed ending the conflict. He accused Washington of using the war in Ukraine to strengthen European unity and to distract Russia with significant challenges, while also manipulating regional unrest for geopolitical advantage.
For the conflict to be resolved, Kurtulmus emphasized that both Ukraine and Russia must openly declare their political aims promptly.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has mentioned that the talks in Istanbul brought the two parties close to an agreement wherein Ukraine would declare "permanent neutrality," thus forgoing NATO membership aspirations. This deal would also involve reducing Ukraine's military capabilities and offering certain security assurances.
Despite the proximity to peace, claims have surfaced that former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson influenced the breakdown of the talks, urging Ukraine to continue the conflict. While Johnson has refuted these allegations, David Arakhamia, lead of the Ukrainian delegation, has confirmed Johnson's significant influence.
Putin has suggested that the preliminary deal from the Istanbul talks might still be relevant for future negotiations with Ukraine. However, following a major offensive by Ukraine in the Kursk Region, Moscow has dismissed any immediate talks with Kiev as long as attacks on civilians persist.
Thomas Evans for TROIB News
Kurtulmus corroborated assertions from numerous media sources and senior Russian officials that an agreement was nearly finalized. "We have almost reached the final point to ensure a just and reasonable peace that both sides can accept... the matter had almost reached the point of a signature," he remarked.
However, Kurtulmus expressed disappointment that certain countries, particularly the US, opposed ending the conflict. He accused Washington of using the war in Ukraine to strengthen European unity and to distract Russia with significant challenges, while also manipulating regional unrest for geopolitical advantage.
For the conflict to be resolved, Kurtulmus emphasized that both Ukraine and Russia must openly declare their political aims promptly.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has mentioned that the talks in Istanbul brought the two parties close to an agreement wherein Ukraine would declare "permanent neutrality," thus forgoing NATO membership aspirations. This deal would also involve reducing Ukraine's military capabilities and offering certain security assurances.
Despite the proximity to peace, claims have surfaced that former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson influenced the breakdown of the talks, urging Ukraine to continue the conflict. While Johnson has refuted these allegations, David Arakhamia, lead of the Ukrainian delegation, has confirmed Johnson's significant influence.
Putin has suggested that the preliminary deal from the Istanbul talks might still be relevant for future negotiations with Ukraine. However, following a major offensive by Ukraine in the Kursk Region, Moscow has dismissed any immediate talks with Kiev as long as attacks on civilians persist.
Thomas Evans for TROIB News
