Ankara: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Thursday announced the dispatch of a delegation, led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, to Istanbul for negotiations with Russian officials. This decision underscores the ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict, with Istanbul emerging as a significant venue for Ukrainian-Russian dialogue.

According to Anadolu Agency, Zelenskyy made the announcement in Trkiye's capital, Ankara, emphasizing that the move was made "out of respect for President Trump and Erdogan." The development highlights Trkiye's role as a central mediator in the conflict. Zelenskyy's declaration followed an extensive bilateral meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the Presidential Complex in Ankara, a session that extended for nearly three hours behind closed doors.

Zelenskyy's visit to Trkiye began earlier on Thursday upon his arrival at Ankara's Esenboga Airport. He was greeted by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and other officials who were in the country to participate in an informal NATO foreign ministers meeting in Antalya. The talks in Istanbul are part of broader initiatives aimed at bringing an end to the ongoing war.