Russia-Ukraine Talks Stall on Ceasefire but Agree to Prisoner Swap
Latest Round of Negotiations Ends Without Breakthrough
The second round of direct peace talks between Russia and Ukraine concluded in Istanbul on June 2, 2025, without achieving a major breakthrough. While both sides committed to a prisoner exchange, they remained deadlocked on the critical issue of an unconditional ceasefire - a key demand from Ukraine and its Western allies.
Russian (left) and Ukrainian (right) delegations meet with Turkish officials (center) in Istanbul
Key Outcomes from Istanbul Talks
- Prisoner Exchange Agreement: Both sides will swap all sick, heavily wounded, and under-25 prisoners of war
- Body Repatriation: Commitment to return remains of 12,000 soldiers (6,000 from each side)
- Ceasefire Rejection: Russia declined Ukraine’s proposal for a 30-day unconditional truce
Divergent Positions on Peace Terms
Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov emphasized Kyiv’s demand for a comprehensive ceasefire covering land, sea, and air operations. Meanwhile, Russia proposed only localized 2-3 day truces for body recovery, which President Zelensky dismissed as inadequate.
Moscow maintains its preconditions for peace, including:
- Ukrainian withdrawal from four occupied regions
- Demilitarization of Ukraine
- Recognition of Russian-annexed territories
- Lifting of international sanctions
Stalled Diplomatic Progress
With no scheduled date for further talks and fundamental disagreements persisting, prospects for a swift resolution appear dim. Ukraine continues to push for a potential Zelensky-Putin summit, while Russia shows little willingness to compromise on its core demands.
The war, now in its fourth year, continues with Russia controlling approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory. Both sides appear to be preparing for prolonged conflict rather than imminent peace.
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