ISTANBUL — In the third round of direct peace talks since mid-May, Russian and Ukrainian officials agreed to further prisoner-of-war exchanges—but fell short of reaching a ceasefire deal or paving the way for a leaders’ summit, according to negotiators from both sides.
Renewing POW Exchanges
During a session in Istanbul that lasted under an hour, both delegations confirmed an agreement to exchange at least 1,200 prisoners each, in addition to the repatriation of up to 3,000 bodies of fallen Ukrainian soldiers. Efforts also continued around returning abducted Ukrainian children. Both sides termed the exchange “humanitarian in nature,” part of ongoing confidence-building measures.
No Ceasefire or Summit
Ukraine pressed its demand for an immediate full and unconditional ceasefire, while Russia reiterated support only for short humanitarian pauses. The two countries also discussed the possibility of a leader-level meeting, which Ukraine wanted before the end of August to meet the U.S.’s 50-day peace ultimatum.
Russia rejected this timing, stating a Zelenskiy–Putin summit should only follow finalization of a formal settlement—making a pre-agreed meeting impossible at this stage.
Kremlin Skepticism Persists
Following the talks, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov voiced doubts about meaningful outcomes, asserting there was no basis to expect “miracles”—and framing the positions of each side as “diametrically opposed.” Peskov reaffirmed that any summit would only occur as a concluding step after expert-level agreement on terms.
Strategic Impasse Deepens
Ukraine, backed by U.S. and European allies—including support coordinated under diplomatic initiatives like the London-led “coalition of the willing”—insists on a ceasefire and eventual peace talks solidified at the leadership level.
Russia insists on preconditions including Ukrainian troop withdrawal, neutrality agreements, and recognition of territorial claims. Meanwhile, U.S. sanctions pressure escalates as President Trump pushes for resolution by early September.
