Putin Says Russia Ready for Ukraine Talks Based on Istanbul Agreements

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Russia remains ready for negotiations with Ukraine based on agreements reached earlier in Istanbul. During a meeting with graduates of military academies, he also addressed military developments, relations with Western countries and the broader political climate surrounding the ongoing conflict. According to Putin, Moscow sees no reason to move away from previously discussed terms and remains prepared for a diplomatic process. "As has already been stated many times, Russia is ready for peaceful negotiations with Ukraine and prepared to proceed on the basis of agreements reached in Istanbul. I see no reason for us to step away from those agreements," Putin said.