Russia-Ukraine talks in Istanbul show unexpected progress: Turkey
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Turkish mediation in the Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Istanbul has shown more progress than expected, with discussions on a POW exchange and ceasefire.
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Russian and Ukrainian delegations attend talks at the Dolmabache palace, in Istanbul, Turkey, Friday, May 16, 2025. (AP)
The latest Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Istanbul have shown signs of progress beyond expectations, according to a Turkish official cited by CNN on Friday.
"It was more positive than expected. They didn’t use accusatory language," the official said, highlighting a notably less confrontational tone during the session.
The talks marked the first direct meeting between the two delegations in three years and were held under the chairmanship of Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. The official said the meeting was significant simply because both sides agreed to attend. "The fact that they came to Istanbul can be seen as a need on their part to find a way out."
Russia’s ceasefire terms include territorial withdrawal request
As part of the Russia-Ukraine ceasefire discussions, the Turkish official revealed that Moscow had requested Kiev withdraw from certain territories still under Ukrainian control. This demand was made in the context of a proposed ceasefire deal.
The Ukrainian delegation did not immediately respond to the demand but reportedly left the room to consult with leadership, especially after Turkiye proposed a prisoner-of-war (POW) exchange covering three categories: children, civilians, and soldiers.
The official noted that the Russian delegation required fewer consultations during the discussions, indicating that they may have entered the talks with a clearer position.
Major POW exchange agreed by both sides
Russian presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, who leads the Russian delegation, announced that both parties had agreed on a large-scale prisoner exchange involving 1,000 detainees from each side.
The agreement represents a potential breakthrough in humanitarian cooperation amid continued hostilities, and it follows Turkish mediation in Russia-Ukraine talks.
