The billionaire represents the Russian side in the peace talks between Ukraine and Russia.
(Photo: IMAGO/ITAR-TASS)
Istanbul Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich is taking part in talks between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul, according to Russian sources. However, Abramovich is not an official member of the Russian delegation, but should ensure “certain contacts” between the two sides, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Tuesday, according to the Interfax agency.
The Russian Presidential Office had previously stated that Abramovich initially played a role in the talks. The process is now in the hands of the negotiating delegations.
The businessman is one of the Russian oligarchs who have been sanctioned by the West for their close ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Ukraine had asked Abramovich for mediation help at the beginning of the Russian invasion.
Representatives of the Ukrainian and Russian delegations met in Istanbul on Tuesday to negotiate an end to the Russian invasion. Ukraine is aiming for a ceasefire agreement in talks with Russian negotiators. Foreign Minister Dmitro Kuleba said before the start of the meeting that the Ukrainian side’s “minimum goal” is to improve the humanitarian situation, which has caused millions of people to flee their homes.
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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had previously appealed to both sides and called for a ceasefire. Progress in the talks could pave the way for a meeting between the two countries’ presidents, Erdogan said at the start of the meeting on Tuesday.
“We believe that there will be no losers in a just peace,” Erdogan said. Prolonging the conflict is in nobody’s interest. “As members of the delegations, you have taken on a historic responsibility. The whole world is waiting for the good news that will come from you,” he explained.
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