The Russian Presidency (Kremlin) stated on Saturday that a potential meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is "not ruled out," but stressed it would depend on achieving tangible outcomes in ongoing negotiations between the two sides.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told journalists that Putin does not oppose holding direct talks with Zelensky in Istanbul, emphasizing that "Russia has never rejected dialogue" but seeks to "address the root causes of the conflict and safeguard its national interests through substantive negotiations away from media theatrics."

Peskov noted that "current Moscow-Kyiv negotiations should proceed without publicity," underscoring that "efforts to resolve the crisis will continue based on understandings reached during the Istanbul talks." He revealed both sides had agreed to exchange ceasefire terms lists, with Moscow already preparing its document for delivery to Ukrainian officials as a practical step forward.

The Kremlin spokesman framed implementation of existing agreements as a prerequisite before considering new negotiation rounds, stating: "What matters most isn't just signing documents, but who signs them from the Ukrainian side—this will demonstrate their seriousness in honoring commitments." He confirmed Russia maintains its original negotiation team composition as evidence of Moscow's consistent approach.

Regarding U.S. relations, Peskov denied recent Putin-Trump communications, noting any future contact would be formally announced. His comments followed Russian delegation head Vladimir Medinsky's positive assessment of the Istanbul talks, where he affirmed Moscow's openness to continued dialogue.

Key Context:

• The statement comes amid stalled peace efforts following February's Istanbul negotiations

• Russia emphasizes implementation over new talks, while Ukraine seeks security guarantees

• Ceasefire terms exchange represents first potential movement since March