Russia's Shoigu Blames West for Blocking Istanbul Agreements on Ukraine

Sergey Shoigu, Secretary of Russia's Security Council, stated that the conflict in Ukraine could have been resolved through the Istanbul Agreements if not for Western interference. During a meeting with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on June 17, Shoigu emphasized that Russia and Turkey had jointly prepared the only comprehensive documents aimed at resolving the conflict. He asserted that Moscow and Ankara had done everything necessary to prepare and implement the Istanbul Agreements, but Western intervention prevented their realization.

The diplomatic engagement between Russia and Turkey remained active, with multiple high-level meetings occurring around the same time. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held talks with Fidan on June 16, during which he noted the intensive dialogue between Moscow and Ankara across all levels. The outcomes of these foreign ministry discussions were planned to be reported to both presidents.

Turkey reiterated its willingness to facilitate further negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. Fidan stated that Turkey was prepared to host Russian-Ukrainian talks again, signaling Ankara's continued role as a potential mediator. Earlier on June 16, Yury Ushakov, an aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin, announced that the president would receive Fidan in Kazan on Wednesday evening, indicating continued high-level diplomatic efforts.