The Czech MFA highlighted that Ukraine has clearly demonstrated its readiness for peace talks.
“Ukraine has clearly shown it's ready for peace talks," the statement read.
"It accepted an unconditional ceasefire proposal 100 days ago. And Russia? Sabotage, trolling, absurd demands, and ongoing attacks on civilians."
The MFA stressed that the Kremlin does not want peace, and maximum pressure must be put.
Earlier, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, in response to Russian dictator Vladimir Putin’s claims about alleged readiness for talks and desire to “end the war,” reminded the public that it is Russia who has been ignoring a U.S. proposal for a 30-day ceasefire for 100 days now.
On June 19, Putin claimed that the next round of negotiations between Russia and Ukraine might take place after June 22.
Before that, Putin said he was ready to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the final stage of the negotiation process — but refused to recognize him as a legitimate representative to sign any agreements.
June 2 Istanbul talks
On June 2, a second meeting between the Ukrainian and Russian delegations took place in Istanbul. According to Russian media, it lasted over an hour.
As during the first round on May 16, the Russian delegation was headed by Vladimir Medinsky, aide to dictator Vladimir Putin, while the Ukrainian delegation was led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov.
After the talks, Umerov told journalists that only a new stage of prisoner exchange was agreed upon. Ukraine also proposed a full ceasefire and a leader-level meeting. The Ukrainian side is still waiting for Russia’s response regarding the proposed summit, expected by the end of the month.
Umerov added that both sides will have a week to review the memoranda exchanged, noting that Ukraine submitted its document in advance, while Russia refused to share theirs until the actual meeting.
On June 13, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha reaffirmed Ukraine’s support for talks where real decisions are made. He also said that during the previous meeting, Ukraine showed a constructive stance, but Russia displayed total inadequacy, submitting a memorandum full of ultimatums.
“They haven’t changed their language of ultimatums, they’re demanding our capitulation,” Sybiha concluded.