Peace talks between Ukraine and Russia are set to resume in Istanbul, Turkey, following a turbulent week of heightened military action and deepening hostility.
While the previous round of negotiations yielded the largest prisoner swap of the war, it failed to generate any real progress toward ending the conflict.
New Round of Peace Talks in Istanbul
After days of uncertainty, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy confirmed that Defense Minister Rustem Umerov will lead Ukraine’s delegation at the second round of direct peace talks. They are scheduled for Monday in Istanbul. The announcement follows growing international pressure to find a diplomatic resolution, though hopes remain tempered.
“We are prepared to engage in dialogue, but not at the expense of our sovereignty,” said Zelenskiy in a televised statement.
“Ukraine will negotiate, but we will not surrender.”
Despite the positive gesture of the first round’s prisoner exchange, both sides appear entrenched. Russia continues to press military advantages, while Ukraine defends its territory with increasing aggression.
