Russian presidential aide contacts Ukraine’s defense minister to propose date, venue for ceasefire talks

By Alperen Aktas

ISTANBUL (AA) - Russian presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky said on Wednesday that he called Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov to propose a specific date and location for a meeting to exchange memoranda related to a possible ceasefire agreement.

“I read the news spread by world agencies claiming that Umerov called me and that we, the Russians, are in no hurry. Let me comment. It was almost like that—only the other way around,” Medinsky said in a statement quoted by Russian state-run media RIA Novosti.

"I called Umerov today and suggested a precise date and place for a meeting to exchange memoranda," he said.

He emphasized that Russia is ready to begin substantive negotiations on all elements of a proposed package deal for a future ceasefire.

“We are waiting for the Ukrainian side to confirm. Apparently, their consultations are still ongoing,” he added.

Medinsky said Russia is prepared to meet “in the coming days” at the proposed location to begin work “in the interests of long-term peace and saving human lives.”