Putin Rejects To‘qayev's Proposal to 'Freeze' the War

Uzbekistan President Shavkat To‘qayev suggested in a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on September 21, 2023, to halt the war between Russia and Ukraine and return to peace talks in the Istanbul format. To‘qayev emphasized that the youth from both sides are perishing in the war and this needs to be taken into consideration. However, the Kremlin rejected this proposal due to Kyiv’s 'position'. The war between Russia and Ukraine continues, and the international community continues to assist in the peace process. In this situation, the role of Uzbekistan in mediating is emphasized as significant.