Tensions between Ukraine and Russia remain high after a second round of peace talks in Istanbul ended with little progress. The two sides did, however, agree to increase prisoner exchanges.
The latest talks,which lasted just an hour, saw both sides commit to swapping sick and wounded prisoners, as well as those under the age of 25.
Ukraine’s negotiators pushed for a complete ceasefire, which Russia rejected. Russia instead proposed a temporary ceasefire in certain areas, but details were scarce.
The Ukrainian side wants a 30-day ceasefire to stop the bloodshed. Defense Minister Rustem Umerov says they’ve made an offer to Russia, but Moscow has yet to respond.
Russia currently controls around 20% of Ukraine’s territory, including the southern region of Crimea, which it annexed in 2014.
Ukrainian officials say they’re preparing for direct talks between the two countries’ leaders. Russia’s lead negotiator, Vladimir Medinsky, confirmed the prisoner swap but didn’t give a timeline.
Medinsky also said Russia would return 6,000 Ukrainian soldiers’ bodies to Kyiv next week.
Key points from the talks
- Ukraine and Russia agreed to increase prisoner exchanges
- Ukraine pushed for a complete ceasefire, which Russia rejected
- Russia proposed a temporary ceasefire in certain areas
- Ukraine wants a 30-day ceasefire to stop the bloodshed
- Russia controls around 20% of Ukraine’s territory
The situation remains volatile, with both sides dug in and little sign of a lasting resolution.