Sergiy Kyslytsya on Istanbul Talks and Ukraine-Russia Conflict

Serhiy Kyslytsya, First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, is actively participating in the negotiations in Istanbul. Previously, from 2020 until early 2025, he served as Ukraine’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations. In his interview, Kyslytsya shared his thoughts on the outcomes of the Istanbul meetings, the atmosphere of the negotiations, the role of the United States, as well as the possibilities for a ceasefire and sanctions.

According to Kyslytsya, the two meetings in Istanbul yielded certain results, including prisoner exchanges and the return of the bodies of fallen Ukrainian soldiers. However, he emphasized that these negotiations were not genuine, as the Russian side showed no willingness for constructive dialogue and only issued ultimatums.

Kyslytsya noted that the memorandum presented by Russia during the plenary session contained nothing new, merely repeating already known demands. He described the situation as a well-planned Kremlin manipulation aimed at delaying sanctions and creating the illusion of constructive relations with the United States.

The diplomat stressed the importance of involving the United States in the negotiation process, as resolving the conflict is impossible without their participation. He also pointed out that for Russia, the main enemy is Europe, not the U.S., and the Kremlin is trying to create the impression of improving relations with Washington to weaken Europe’s position.

Kyslytsya explained that the meetings in Istanbul took place under pressure from the new U.S. administration, and Ukraine demonstrated readiness to cooperate, including on an unconditional ceasefire. He emphasized that the Ukrainian people and government have always been ready for honest negotiations based on international law.

Commenting on the Trump administration’s attitude toward the war, Kyslytsya noted that there are different opinions in the U.S., but awareness is growing that Putin is manipulating Americans. He stressed that it is important for Americans to understand: without Ukraine’s victory, America cannot become great again.

The diplomat also highlighted that most Americans live in regions where the war does not attract much attention, so Ukraine needs to work with all layers of American society, including ordinary citizens.

Kyslytsya responded to criticism about insufficient engagement with Trump’s circle by urging opponents to “do better” and emphasized that political struggles in Ukraine should not interfere with diplomatic efforts.

Regarding the atmosphere at the Istanbul meetings, Kyslytsya said that the psychological pressure from the Russians was not a problem for him. He shared that the Russian delegation often resorted to emotional threats and manipulations, including references to personal tragedies of Ukrainians, notably the death of his nephew Maksym.

“He was 23 years old. His name was Maksym. As you understand, at 23, people don’t join the army because they are drafted. He died. It was a great tragedy for the family. You know, when they bring the body and my sister goes to identify it. He had no leg, no face, everything was burned. It’s a great tragedy.”

Kyslytsya also noted that Russian intelligence services have files on many Ukrainian officials and use them for pressure. He emphasized that most employees of the Russian diplomatic mission at the UN are intelligence officers, which speaks to the high level of professionalism of the enemy despite ideological hostility.

Regarding further meetings in the Istanbul format, Kyslytsya said there are currently no agreements on new dates. He stressed that only personal negotiations between the leaders of Ukraine and Russia can significantly change the situation, as in Russia, decisions are made by one person – Putin.

The diplomat emphasized the need to strengthen sanctions, particularly against the shadow fleet, setting a cap on oil prices, and excluding Russian banks from the SWIFT system. He also drew attention to the complexity of the situation due to third-country components in Russian weapons.

Kyslytsya noted that sanctions do not have an immediate effect, and their adoption is slow, which does not contribute to a quick end to the war. He also pointed out that the situation in the Middle East could affect oil prices and, consequently, economic pressure on Russia.

The diplomat stressed that despite signals about possible easing of sanctions, many businessmen are interested in quickly returning to business with Russia, but tectonic changes in Europe and the world indicate the need to maintain a tough stance.

Kyslytsya also criticized European policy, calling Europe a continent of hedonists and sybarites who are not ready for serious changes in security policy. He gave examples of how Europeans often vacation during critical moments, which does not facilitate a prompt response to threats.

“In all these countries, there is a right to a rich and comfortable life. But it will not exist if Ukraine does not withstand this war, and Europe does not change its approach to its own security.”

In conclusion, Kyslytsya cited the example of Norway, where despite wealth, people live modestly and understand the importance of supporting Ukraine in the war against Russia.

“All these trillions of dollars will not bring back the lives of Norwegian soldiers if Russia crosses the Russian-Norwegian border. Therefore, it is in the interest of all taxpayers in Norway to help Ukrainians hold back the enemy and defeat him.”