Ukraine to create permanent expanded delegation for talks with Russia

Ukraine will form a permanent expanded delegation to negotiate with Russia on a solution to the crisis, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Report informs.

"I have given instructions to form a permanent, expanded national negotiation group," Zelenskyy wrote on Telegram after hearing a report from Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, who led the Ukrainian delegation at a meeting with Russian negotiators in Istanbul.

"We are also prepared for a meeting at the level of leaders to solve the key issues. Ukraine is not afraid of direct talks with Russia, and it is important that the Russian leadership not prolong the war," the Ukrainian President emphasized.

On Friday, May 16, negotiations took place in Istanbul regarding the end of the war between Ukraine and Russia. Following the meeting, the Russian side put forward a number of tough demands, particularly regarding territorial concessions.