Ukraine and Russia Resume Peace Talks Amid Stalemate and Escalating Tensions

Russia and Ukraine have resumed peace talks in Istanbul, marking the first direct negotiations in nearly two months.

Despite agreeing to a new prisoner swap, both sides remain deeply divided on key issues, with little progress toward a ceasefire or a leaders' summit. Ukrainian President Zelensky continues to push for a face-to-face meeting with Russian President Putin, while Russia insists its war objectives must be met before any real peace can be achieved.

The talks are taking place under the shadow of ongoing deadly attacks in Ukraine and mounting international pressure, including threats of new sanctions from the U.S. Expectations for a breakthrough remain low, as both sides signal that a quick resolution is unlikely.