Russia-Ukraine peace talks begin in Istanbul following massive drone attack
Russian and Ukrainian delegations have commenced discussions in Istanbul, Turkey, following a significant Ukrainian drone attack on Russian airfields less than 24 hours prior. The talks, held at Ciragan Palace in Istanbul, included senior Turkish officials and marked the second round of peace negotiations since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Upon entering the palace, it was evident that many members of the Ukrainian delegation were dressed in military uniforms, while the Russian group opted for suits. The meeting, which is expected to remain confidential until its conclusion, will not feature face-to-face discussions between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The recent drone attack orchestrated by Ukrainian forces resulted in the destruction of 40 aircraft across five Russian airfields. According to a Ukrainian official, the operation was in the works for over a year and involved transporting drones in containers via trucks deep into Russian territory. The targeted planes included A-50, Tu-95, and Tu-22M aircraft stationed at various airfields.
In previous military engagements, Moscow utilized Tupolev Tu-95 and Tu-22 long-range bombers to launch missiles at Ukraine, while A-50s were deployed for target coordination and air defense detection. Additionally, a series of explosions damaged bridges in Russia near the Ukrainian border, although Ukraine has not claimed responsibility for these incidents.
One such attack occurred on a highway bridge over a railway in the Bryansk region, coinciding with the passage of a passenger train en route to Moscow. Subsequently, a railway bridge over a highway in the neighboring Kursk region was also destroyed, causing debris to fall onto a freight train passing below.
As developments unfold in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the international community closely monitors the outcomes of the peace talks in Istanbul. The delicate negotiations hold the potential to impact the future stability of the region and warrant continued attention from world leaders and observers alike.
