Peskov Briefs on Istanbul Talks, Potential Summit Between Putin, Trump, Zelenskyy

On Istanbul Talks on June 2

The Russian delegation is en route to Istanbul and will be ready early Monday for the continuation of negotiations, Peskov told reporters.

"Both draft memorandums, both Russian and Ukrainian, as we hope, will be discussed during the second round of negotiations, for which the Russian delegation will be ready on Monday morning in Istanbul," the Kremlin spokesperson stated.

Peskov emphasized that the draft memorandums from Russia and Ukraine, outlining their visions for a ceasefire, would not be published, TASS reported. "This cannot be made public," he added.

On Conditions for Putin, Zelenskyy, and Trump Talks

Direct talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin, his American counterpart Donald Trump, and Volodymyr Zelenskyy regarding a Ukrainian settlement could only take place after results are achieved in delegation-level negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, Peskov indicated.

The Kremlin official reiterated that Putin has repeatedly stated he is fundamentally in favor of high-level contacts. However, these must be properly prepared. First, results must be achieved in talks between Russian and Ukrainian delegations.

"And once that is achieved, then, of course, high-level contacts can be discussed," Peskov explained.

On Russia's Concerns Regarding NATO Expansion

Statements by U.S. Special Envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg regarding Moscow's concerns about NATO's eastward expansion were partly a result of closed-door negotiations between Russia and the United States, Peskov said.

The Kremlin is pleased that the Russian president's explanations regarding the inadmissibility of the Alliance's expansion are finding understanding, including in Washington, the Kremlin spokesperson noted.

Peskov added that the Kremlin would prefer not to publicly discuss "the delicate nuances of this topic." "We believe it is necessary to do this through closed contacts," he explained.

On Putin's Relationship with Shinzo Abe

Vladimir Putin had warm and constructive relations with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Russia and Japan conducted substantive negotiations aimed at concluding a peace treaty. However, the current Japanese authorities have chosen a path of confrontation.

On the Future of European Security

The future of security on the European continent should be discussed with European countries. This is indispensable, Peskov noted.

On Black Sea Shipping Safety

The Kremlin expects that the topic of safe navigation in the Black Sea will become part of agreements concerning Ukraine. "A list of conditions is being developed, and a list of conditions for a temporary truce will be agreed upon," Peskov explained.

On Creating a Domestic Messenger

The Kremlin believes that the future appearance of a Russian national messenger is excellent. However, such a service must be competitive, Peskov stressed. He noted that there are many foreign counterparts, and they are all accessible.

On May 29, Peskov stated that Russia has not yet received consent from the Ukrainian side for a new round of negotiations on June 2. The Kremlin official noted that their continuation is currently a priority.