Maduro supports Putin's initiative to hold talks with Ukraine in Istanbul

Venezuela has supported the initiative to resume peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, which, according to Russian President Vladimir Putin, may take place on May 15 in Istanbul. This was announced on May 11 during a visit to St. Petersburg by Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro.

"I am sure that most of the countries and governments of Latin America and the Caribbean think the same way, and they support the efforts of President Putin, Russia, to resume the path that should not have been abandoned through the resumption of negotiations. This is the path of direct dialogue, this is mutual understanding between Russia and Ukraine without any interference," Maduro told reporters during a visit to the LENRESERV Patriotic Association exhibition.

According to him, Moscow and Kiev need to negotiate directly, "without any external interference," and the world should be fair and based on mutual understanding.

Maduro made his statements during a visit to St. Petersburg, where he visited the memorial cemetery and the Museum of the Defense and Siege of Leningrad. The head of Venezuela stressed that he was deeply touched by the history of the city and the courage of its inhabitants.

"We saw evidence of the glory of the Red Army, the heroic deeds of women and children, and the ingenuity that helped save the country, Europe, and all of humanity," he said.

The Venezuelan leader also announced his intention to develop cooperation with St. Petersburg so that young Venezuelans could come and learn about the history of the city. He mentioned Putin's family separately, saying that he was impressed by the story of the president's parents who survived the siege of Leningrad.

The news is being updated