Stalemate in Istanbul: Russian-Ukrainian Peace Talks Underway

Russian and Ukrainian negotiators met in Turkey for the first direct peace talks in over seven weeks. Despite discussions, expectations for significant breakthroughs remain low. The complex talks focus on resolving territorial demands and returning prisoners of war amidst an ongoing conflict with escalating military actions from both sides.

Russian and Ukrainian delegations convened in Turkey on Wednesday for their first direct peace talks in over seven weeks. The meeting aimed at finding a resolution to the ongoing conflict but expectations were tempered by the Kremlin, who cautioned against anticipating major breakthroughs.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy emphasized this week that the agenda should include preparing for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, despite opposing positions. Prior talks facilitated exchanges of prisoners but failed to achieve a ceasefire. The U.S. has threatened harsher sanctions unless peace is reached, though Russia remains determined to continue military advances until their peace terms are met.

The conflict's turbulence saw Russian forces capturing new territories and heightened air assaults targeting Kyiv. Ukraine retaliated last month by damaging Russia's strategic bomber fleet. With complex demands on both sides, these peace negotiations offer a glimpse into the arduous diplomatic efforts required to solve this multi-year conflict.

(With inputs from agencies.)