Ukraine-Russia Talks in Istanbul: Low Expectations, but Hope Remains

Ukraine and Russia hold second round of talks in Istanbul amid low expectations for ceasefire. Representatives from both countries met in Istanbul on June 2nd, 2025, for a second round of direct talks aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict. While hopes for an immediate ceasefire remain dim, the discussions focused on exploring potential steps towards a peaceful resolution. A source within the Ukrainian negotiating team stated, "We are prepared to take genuine steps toward peace, but Russia must also show readiness for progress instead of simply repeating previous ultimatums." The talks come amidst a heightened atmosphere following recent Ukrainian attacks and the deployment of Russian long-range bombers. The Ukrainian air force reported that Russia launched 472 drones on Ukrainian territory. Both delegations, led by Ukraine's Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov and Russia's Kremlin advisor Vladimir Medinsky, presented their initial positions. Their first meeting in Istanbul on May 16th resulted in a significant prisoner exchange involving 1,000 soldiers from each side. However, no progress has been made on the issue of a ceasefire, with both sides maintaining their starting positions. The Ukrainian government in Kyiv views Russia's demands as unacceptable and tantamount to a surrender. The ongoing dialogue, however, offers a glimmer of hope that a peaceful resolution might eventually be achieved.