Russia commented on the prospects of a ceasefire with Ukraine following the talks in Istanbul

A ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine could be reached during the negotiations in Istanbul, according to State Duma Deputy Svetlana Zhurova.

She explained that this would require a genuine commitment from Kyiv to stop hostilities.

“Europeans say that talks can only happen after a ceasefire is in place. But we already proposed a ceasefire, and the Ukrainian side didn’t show much willingness to comply. So now everything depends on them—whether they are truly ready to stop the fighting,” the deputy said.

She added that the best-case scenario would be for hostilities to cease, at least temporarily, during the talks. The lawmaker emphasized that such a pause could make the dialogue more constructive.

“I think there is a chance for a ceasefire, but Ukraine needs to be convinced. And it would be good if Ukraine publicly announced its agreement to a ceasefire,” Zhurova added.

Earlier on the morning of May 15, the Russian negotiating team arrived in Istanbul. The delegation is headed by Vladimir Medinsky, aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin.