Istanbul Protocol to Serve as a Guide for Russia-Ukraine Peace Deal
In a recent interview with CNN, U.S. President Donald Trump's Special Envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism about reaching a peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia, drawing parallels to the Istanbul Protocol Agreement. Witkoff stated that the United States is "very close" to finalizing a deal aimed at ending the ongoing conflict.
Witkoff emphasized that the war was unnecessary and could have been avoided, noting that various factors contributed to its escalation. "The war didn't need to happen. It was provoked. It doesn't necessarily mean it was provoked by the Russians," he remarked, highlighting the complex geopolitical dynamics at play. He pointed to discussions surrounding Ukraine's potential NATO membership as a significant factor that heightened tensions with Russia, suggesting that these conversations were perceived as a threat by the Kremlin.
The envoy referenced the Istanbul Protocol Agreement, which he described as a framework that facilitated "very, very cogent and substantive negotiations." Witkoff indicated that the U.S. would use this framework as a guidepost in the ongoing efforts to broker peace between the two nations. He expressed hope that reaching a peace deal would mark a significant milestone in resolving the conflict.
As diplomatic efforts continue, the international community remains watchful for developments that could lead to a resolution of the war, which has had profound humanitarian and geopolitical implications. Witkoff's comments reflect a renewed commitment to finding a peaceful solution and underscore the importance of dialogue in addressing the underlying issues that have fueled the conflict.