US envoy says next Russia-Ukraine talks to 'probably' take place in Geneva

By Yasin Gungor

ISTANBUL (AA) - US envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg said Tuesday the next round of Russia-Ukraine peace talks may take place in Geneva following exchanges of negotiating terms between Moscow and Kyiv.

Kellogg told Fox News that Russia promised to provide a term sheet, or a memorandum outlining Moscow’s path to peace, during US President Donald Trump's call with Russian President Vladimir Putin more than a week ago. He said Ukraine has already submitted its terms and Washington is now waiting for Russia's document.

The US will combine both proposals to identify common ground and acceptable compromises, He said once Russia delivers their memorandum, another meeting will be arranged.

Kellogg​​​​​​​ said the talks will likely occur in Switzerland, noting that Russia rejected the Vatican as a venue.

The development follows initial direct talks in Istanbul earlier this month -- the first since March 2022. Those negotiations resulted in a prisoner exchange and an agreement to provide written ceasefire terms.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov previously dismissed Vatican hosting possibilities after Trump suggested the Holy See's interest. Russia indicated decisions on future talk locations would be made in due time.