Ukraine and Russia agree on prisoner exchange but fail to reach ceasefire deal

The talks between Ukrainian and Russian delegations in Istanbul have concluded. This was the first direct meeting between the two countries in three years.

The delegations discussed for about two hours. The countries agreed to exchange a thousand prisoners of war. Prisoner exchanges have occurred frequently in recent months, though usually involving hundreds of people.

No breakthrough was achieved regarding a ceasefire. Ukrainian Defense Minister Umerov stated that the topic was discussed, along with a potential meeting between Presidents Zelensky and Putin.

A Russian delegation spokesperson expressed satisfaction with the outcomes and mentioned that further talks will follow.