MINSK/KYIV, June 28, 2025 - Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed readiness for a new round of peace negotiations with Ukraine, potentially in Istanbul, as Polish President Andrzej Duda arrived in Kyiv for his final official visit before leaving office.

Speaking to reporters in Minsk on Friday, Putin stated, "We are ready for this. We need to agree on a place and time," regarding the proposed third round of talks with Ukraine [1]. The Russian leader emphasized that negotiating teams from both sides remain in "constant contact" [2].

Putin acknowledged that while the Russian and Ukrainian memorandums are "two completely opposite documents," negotiations are necessary "to find common ground" [5]. He also mentioned Russia's willingness to hand over the remains of an additional 3,000 Ukrainian soldiers [4].

The potential peace talks come amid ongoing hostilities. Both nations have recently exchanged long-range drone attacks, with Ukraine claiming to have intercepted most of the 363 drones and eight missiles launched by Russian forces overnight [3][4].

Meanwhile, in Kyiv, Polish President Andrzej Duda arrived on Saturday morning for an official visit coinciding with Ukraine's Constitution Day [7][8]. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha welcomed Duda at Kyiv's Central Railway Station, praising him as "Ukraine's true friend" who has "stood by Ukraine's side during the most difficult times of Russia's full-scale aggression" [10].

During his visit, President Duda is expected to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy [11]. This visit likely marks Duda's farewell to Ukraine as he prepares to leave office on August 5, concluding his decade-long presidency [9].

In recognition of Duda's support, President Zelenskyy has awarded him the Order of Freedom "for his outstanding personal contribution to strengthening Ukrainian-Polish international cooperation and supporting the state sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine" [8].

As these diplomatic events unfold, Ukraine continues to prioritize its defense capabilities. President Zelenskyy recently signed a decree instructing the government to prioritize funding for national security and defense in the state budget drafts for 2026-2028 [12][13].

The developments highlight the complex interplay of conflict, diplomacy, and regional alliances that continue to shape the ongoing situation in Eastern Europe.