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Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks Update | Putin Sets Out Punitive Terms | POWs Exchange Agreed | N18G

Russia and Ukraine held peace talks in Istanbul, agreeing to exchange prisoners of war and return the bodies of 12,000 fallen soldiers. The meeting lasted less than an hour and was only the second formal negotiation since the conflict began in March 2022. Despite international pressure, no ceasefire was agreed upon. Russia presented a detailed memorandum proposing terms for a full ceasefire, including territorial concessions from Ukraine and limits on its military, demands Ukraine rejected as surrender. The sides agreed to exchange seriously wounded and sick prisoners, as well as young soldiers aged 18 to 25. Both agreed to return 6,000 bodies each. Ukraine also raised concerns about several hundred children reportedly deported to Russia. Ukraine suggested more talks before the end of June, emphasizing that a direct meeting between Presidents Zelenskiy and Putin is necessary to resolve outstanding issues. Turkish President Erdogan expressed hope to host future talks involving Zelenskiy, Putin, and possibly U.S. President Trump, who has threatened to end U.S. mediation without progress.

first published: Jun 3, 2025 12:49 pm