ISTANBUL
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot told reporters on Monday that it is time for Russian President Vladimir Putin to understand that continuing his “colonial war” against Ukraine will come at a high cost, both militarily and diplomatically.
Asked about the recent launch of Moscow-Kyiv peace negotiations in Istanbul, Barrot emphasized that France is still waiting for “the first sign” from Putin indicating a genuine intention to commit to a ceasefire and engage in talks for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.
“So far, what we have seen are evasive maneuvers to buy time and continue his war,” Barrot said, adding that massive sanctions are being prepared by the European Commission in coordination with the US Congress.
Over the weekend, Barrot met with US senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Durbin, who are preparing a sanctions package on the American side.
Barrot also pointed to recent developments, including a major Ukrainian attack in which over 40 Russian warplanes were allegedly struck in four military bases.
He warned that these escalations should not derail negotiations, stressing that Ukraine’s Western partners are determined to push Putin to the negotiating table if he refuses to come voluntarily.
“The Ukrainians, who are fighting for their freedom, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, are nowhere near surrendering if Putin continues his aggression,” Barrot said.
He reaffirmed France’s commitment to stand alongside Ukraine and increase pressure on Moscow to end the war and work toward a peaceful settlement.
Türkiye’s role in facilitating talks
Since the Moscow-Kyiv war began in February 2022, Türkiye has played a key role in bringing Russia and Ukraine together at the negotiating table. In 2022, Türkiye hosted talks in Antalya and Istanbul, and last month — three years later — direct negotiations between the two sides were held in Istanbul.
The second round of Russia-Ukraine peace talks began Monday in Istanbul, with Türkiye serving as the facilitator.
This meeting marks the second round of negotiations hosted by Türkiye, following the May 16 session in Istanbul, where the parties agreed to exchange 1,000 prisoners each and outlined their positions on a potential cease-fire.
The sides also committed to continuing dialogue to de-escalate the ongoing conflict.
Ankara has maintained close ties with both Moscow and Kyiv throughout the war and has repeatedly offered its mediation to facilitate dialogue and peace efforts.
