In the first direct peace talks between Ukraine and Russia since 2022, held in Istanbul, negotiations quickly broke down due to Russia's demands, which Ukraine and its allies deemed unacceptable. Russia insisted that Ukraine withdraw from several territories, including regions it does not fully control, a condition Ukraine described as "detached from reality" and a "non-starter".

Despite the impasse, both sides agreed to a significant prisoner exchange, with 1,000 prisoners released by each side—the largest such swap since the conflict began. However, no progress was made toward a ceasefire. Russia rejected a U.S.-proposed 30-day ceasefire and maintained its maximalist demands, including Ukraine's withdrawal from its own territories and limitations on its sovereignty.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, not present at the talks, immediately sought support from Western allies. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer labeled Russia's position as "clearly unacceptable," and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that the EU is preparing a new package of sanctions against Moscow.

The talks, lasting under two hours, were attended by low-level delegations, with Russian President Vladimir Putin absent. Ukraine has requested direct talks between Zelenskyy and Putin, but Russia has suggested a meeting between Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump instead, excluding Ukrainian and European leaders.

As the conflict continues, Ukraine remains reliant on international support and is pushing for increased sanctions against Russia to pressure Moscow into meaningful negotiations. The lack of progress in Istanbul underscores the deep divisions between the two nations and the challenges ahead in achieving a peaceful resolution.