**Small Step Forward for Democracy: Ukraine and Russia Hold Talks**
For the first time since March 2022, delegations from Ukraine and Russia sat down for talks on Friday. The meeting was held at an Ottoman-era palace in Istanbul, a symbol of hope for peace amidst Europe’s deadliest war since 1945. Despite the optimistic setting, the atmosphere was tense, with Ukrainian officials wearing camouflage military fatigues as a reminder that their country is under attack.
**Pressure and Encouragement Lead to Talks**
The meeting was made possible by pressure from Turkey and the US, who encouraged both sides to come together. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan set the tone for the talks, warning that there are two paths ahead – one leading to peace, and the other to more death and destruction. The delegations were reportedly decked with Ukrainian, Turkish, and Russian flags, as well as a large flower arrangement.
**No Breakthrough on Ceasefire, But Progress on Prisoner Swap**
Despite hopes for a breakthrough, the talks lasted less than two hours and sharp divisions emerged. Ukraine’s officials claimed that Russia made “new and unacceptable demands”, including insisting that Kyiv withdraw its troops from parts of its own territory in exchange for a ceasefire. However, there was one tangible result: each side will return 1,000 prisoners of war to the other.
**Prisoner Swap a Welcome Relief**
The prisoner swap is seen as a positive development, with Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Serhiy Kyslytsya hailing it as “very good news for 1,000 Ukrainian families.” The swap will take place soon, although the exact date has not been announced.
**Mixed Signals from Russia**
While the Russian delegation claimed to be satisfied with the talks and ready to continue contacts, there are fears that they may be engaging in diplomacy simply to buy time. Ukraine and some of its allies worry that Russia is trying to distract from international pressure for a ceasefire and stave off European sanctions.
**President Trump Weighs In**
In a surprise move, President Trump announced on Thursday that the only talks that count will be those between him and Russian President Putin. It remains unclear when such a meeting might take place.
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