Ukraine-Russia Talks: Prisoner Swap, But Ceasefire Remains Distant

Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks: Prisoner Exchange Agreed, but Ceasefire Remains Elusive Direct peace talks between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul concluded with a significant prisoner exchange agreement, but the two sides remain deeply divided on a ceasefire. The talks, which lasted just over an hour, saw an agreement to swap soldiers, including those seriously wounded and under 25 years old. 6,000 bodies of dead troops will also be returned from each country. However, this progress was overshadowed by major disagreements on the terms for a broader ceasefire. Ukraine's foreign ministry spokesperson, Serhiy Kyslytsana, stated, "The Russian side continues to reject the notion of an unconditional ceasefire." Ukraine is pushing for an immediate 30-day ceasefire, while Russia's proposed truce is far shorter and limited in scope. Russia presented a "peace memo" outlining its terms for ending the war, which include Ukraine withdrawing from four regions that Russia claims as its own and accepting limits on the size of its armed forces. The memo also demands Ukraine's full neutrality, effectively preventing its membership in NATO. These terms are considered non-starters for Kyiv. Adding to the complexity of the situation, Ukrainian officials handed their Russian counterparts a list of 399 Ukrainian children, who they claim have been abducted by Russia. The Russians agreed to work on returning only ten. Vladimir Medinsky, head of the Russian delegation, made a sarcastic remark about the situation, saying, "If you want to bring out a tear, show an abandoned child, or better yet, a child with a kitten. That's what they're showing." This highlights the emotional toll of the conflict and the deep mistrust between the two nations. While the prisoner exchange offers a glimmer of hope, the significant differences on a ceasefire indicate a long and difficult road ahead for peace.