Russia, Ukraine resume ceasefire talks in Turkey

Delegates from both countries planned to meet in Turkey on Wednesday to start their third round of peace negotiations more than three years after Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The goal is to work towards a ceasefire with Russia and end the war Ukraine never wanted, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Tuesday. Organizing a leaders’ summit would also make peace more accessible, he added. Zelenskyy cited the release of Ukrainian civilians and children held by Russia as another key discussion topic.

What has Russia said? Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed the direct negotiations around a ceasefire would start Wednesday in Istanbul. The discussion will center around the proposal drafted during the last round of negotiations and continuing prisoner exchanges, Peskov said.

Peskov signaled low expectations for a successful outcome of the planned talks on Tuesday. There’s no reason to expect any breakthroughs or miracles with the new round of talks, he said. Russia will continue pursuing the Kremlin’s interests during this complicated settlement, Peskov added. 

Dig deeper: Read Elizabeth Russell’s report on Trump’s 50-day ultimatum to Russia.