Ukraine and Russia Hold Talks in Istanbul Amidst Ceasefire Urgency - May 2025

Delegations from Ukraine and Russia met in Istanbul on May 16, 2025, for their first direct negotiations in three years, amidst efforts to seek a path towards peace. The talks, mediated by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, aimed to address the ongoing conflict, with Fidan emphasizing the critical need for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further loss of life. Despite the urgency, the discussions concluded after less than two hours without a ceasefire agreement. A key point of contention was Russia's demand for Ukraine to withdraw from the territories it claims to have annexed, a condition deemed unacceptable by Ukraine. However, both sides agreed to a prisoner exchange of 1,000 individuals each, signaling a potential confidence-building measure. While the Istanbul talks may not have yielded an immediate breakthrough, Türkiye affirmed its commitment to continue facilitating efforts towards a lasting peace between Russia and Ukraine. The agreement on a prisoner exchange provides a glimmer of hope amidst the ongoing conflict.