Despite international pressure, Russia and Ukraine held peace negotiations in Istanbul, leading to an agreement on prisoner exchange but failing to secure a ceasefire.
The meeting lasted less than an hour, marking only the second formal negotiation since the war began in March 2022.
Russia presented a memorandum detailing its terms for a full ceasefire, which included territorial concessions from Ukraine and restrictions on its military. However, Ukraine rejected these proposals, calling them a form of surrender. The discussions did result in an agreement to exchange prisoners, including severely injured soldiers and young fighters aged 18 to 25. Additionally, both nations agreed to return the bodies of 12,000 fallen soldiers.
Ukraine raised concerns about hundreds of children allegedly deported to Russia, pressing for further talks by the end of June. Turkish President Erdogan expressed hope for future negotiations involving both leaders and potentially U.S. President Trump, who has threatened to withdraw U.S. mediation efforts unless significant progress is made.
