Kyiv Sets Conditions for Peace Talks in Istanbul: Ceasefire and Prisoner Exchange
Friday, 16 May 2025 () Ukraine is ready to consider a peace process if Russia agrees to key humanitarian steps, including a ceasefire and a comprehensive prisoner swap, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov said on Friday. Speaking as head of the Ukrainian delegation at the Istanbul talks, Umerov outlined the prerequisites for progress. "Peace is only possible if Russia agrees to a 30-day ceasefire, the return of abducted children, and an all-for-all prisoner exchange," Umerov was quoted as saying. Umerov also confirmed Ukraine's readiness for a full and unconditional ceasefire, as well as direct negotiations at the highest level — a reference to potential talks between Presidents Volodymyr Zelensky and Vladimir Putin.
Russia and Ukraine held their first direct peace talks in over three years on Friday in Turkey, marking a rare diplomatic engagement since the war began. Though the meeting lasted under two hours and yielded no major breakthroughs, both sides agreed to a significant 1,000-for-1,000 prisoner swap....
Pope Leo XIV has offered the Vatican as a venue for peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, following the failed negotiations in Istanbul where Putin was notably absent. The Vatican called Putin’s..
Russia-Ukraine peace talks end after less than 2 hours with deal to swap POWs
The two sides sat opposite each other at a U-shaped table in the Turkey's Dolmabahce Palace but remained far apart in..
Credit: euronews (in English) Duration: 01:10Published
Pope Leo XIV offers to host Ukraine-Russia peace talks at the Vatican
The Vatican did not release a statement after the meeting, but Pope Leo XIV has repeatedly voiced support for Ukraine, calling..
Credit: euronews (in English) Duration: 00:35Published
Friday, 16 May 2025 ()
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