Grain Talks in Istanbul: Russia, UN, and Turkey Weigh Next Steps

Türkiye, Russia and the UN can discuss the grain agreement in Istanbul. The newspaper cites unnamed sources to outline potential formats and participants, underscoring Istanbul as a strategic venue for high-level talks. According to the outlet, one option to reactivate the Black Sea grain initiative is to convene a fresh meeting between Russia and the United Nations in Istanbul, signaling a possible step toward revived cooperation after the negotiation hiatus. The article adds that there is a growing consensus around a tripartite format that would also include Turkey, reflecting regional interest and the role Ankara could play in facilitating dialogue and practical steps on logistics, banking, and verification processes. It further notes that if progress is made, discussions could move into a quadruple framework that includes Ukraine, widening the circle of stakeholders and aligning with international humanitarian objectives while preserving the initiative’s original humanitarian purpose (note: attribution from Turkish press, sources cited).