In a significant step toward easing long-standing tensions, peace talks at the historic Ciragan Palace in Istanbul brought Russia and Ukraine together on Wednesday evening. Led by Russian presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky and Secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council Rustem Umerov, the delegations agreed on a substantial prisoner exchange.
The deal calls for swapping 1,200 prisoners of war each. Moscow even proposed exchanging around 30 civilians held in the Kursk region. Russia has returned the bodies of 7,000 fallen Ukrainian soldiers and is prepared to hand over 3,000 more, asking in return for any deceased Russian soldiers from Ukraine. This exchange aims to bring a measure of closure for the families affected by the conflict. 😔
However, while the prisoner swap shines as a hopeful gesture, deep differences remain on the issue of a ceasefire. Umerov stressed, "We are ready for a ceasefire now and to start substantive peace negotiations," insisting that any ceasefire must be full and unconditional, with an immediate halt to strikes on civilian areas and critical infrastructure. 🛑
Chaired by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, the brief but intense discussions also saw Ukraine propose a high-stakes meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy—with potential participation from key international figures. Yet, Medinsky made it clear that such a meeting is not under serious consideration until further processes are completed.
While previous rounds of talks in May and June yielded thousands of exchanged prisoners and repatriated soldiers without securing a lasting ceasefire, Wednesday's meeting reinforces that every step counts. For young peace seekers and global citizens, this development is a reminder that real progress can start with small, determined gestures—even if the bigger picture is still unfolding. ✌️
Reference(s):
Russia, Ukraine agree on prisoner exchange, differ on ceasefire
cgtn.com
