Peace Talks Yield No Major Progress between Ukraine and Russia, but Prisoner Exchange Agreed

Following a new round of discussions in Istanbul, both negotiating teams remain at stark odds over crucial issue resolution, even as they confirm a prisoner exchange agreement.

A second round of peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia concluded without significant advancements, with both sides merely agreeing to a prisoner swap. The discussions, which took place in Istanbul, left key demands unmet, including Ukraine's call for an "unconditional ceasefire."

Ukrainian representatives expressed disappointment, noting that Russia once again dismissed their request for a ceasefire—an essential demand from Kyiv and its allies. The Russian delegation did propose a brief two-to-three day truce in "certain areas" but offered no specifics or guarantees.

Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov led the talks and reiterated the need for a full ceasefire lasting at least 30 days to halt the ongoing violence. He mentioned that Ukraine had submitted its truce proposals to Russia a few days prior but noted that Russia only presented its plan during the Istanbul meeting.

Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Serhiy Kyslytsia highlighted the rejection of the unconditional ceasefire by the Russian side. The Ukrainian negotiators are now awaiting a response from Russia to their proposals by the end of June, emphasizing the importance of facilitating direct discussions between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Following the meeting, Russian delegation head Vladimir Medinsky acknowledged the agreed terms for the exchange of sick and severely wounded prisoners of war, as well as those under 25 years of age. However, no date was provided for when this exchange would occur. Medinsky also announced plans to return the bodies of 6,000 Ukrainian soldiers to Kyiv next week.

Initial talks on May 16 had not produced any significant breakthroughs either, merely resulting in an agreement to exchange 1,000 prisoners on each side. Ukrainian President Zelensky and European allies have accused Moscow of intentionally stalling negotiations in order to gain more territory. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has called for a swift resolution but has been criticized for not advancing sanctions against Russia, leading to tensions between the two leaders.

Amid the ongoing conflict, Ukraine's recent drone strategy has been viewed as a critical message not only to Russia but to Western nations as well, amidst growing concerns over resistance and fear under ongoing occupation in certain regions of Ukraine.