Ukraine Proposes Leaders' Meeting by End of August with Trump and Erdoğan, Says Rustem Umerov

The Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, Rustem Umerov, reported to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the results of the third meeting between the Ukrainian delegation and representatives of the Russian Federation, which took place on July 23 in Istanbul.

During the negotiations, the Ukrainian side clearly outlined three priorities defined by the Head of State. These include a complete and unconditional ceasefire, including an end to all strikes on civilian and critical infrastructure; the organization of a meeting between the Presidents of Ukraine and Russia, with the participation of leaders from other states, specifically Presidents Trump and Erdoğan, by the end of August; and the continuation of the humanitarian track, particularly the return of all prisoners, civilians, and children who were illegally deported to the Russian Federation.

"Ukraine is ready for a ceasefire today. All technical mechanisms for this are known. The only obstacle is the lack of a political decision in the Kremlin," stated the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine.

The Ukrainian side emphasized that a meeting of leaders is a tool capable of unblocking political and security issues, and expressed readiness for such a meeting at any moment. "President Zelenskyy is ready. The question is whether Putin is ready to sit at the negotiating table without hiding behind other mandates," noted Rustem Umerov.

During the negotiations, special attention was paid to the humanitarian bloc. Ukraine confirmed its readiness for further work on the release of prisoners of war, civilians, and children.

Rustem Umerov also acknowledged the role of international partners, particularly the Republic of Türkiye, which continues to play an active role in creating a platform for dialogue.

"Peace is possible. But for this, Russia must move from ultimatums to responsibility, from war to solutions," concluded the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine.